By Andrew Abah, Abuja
Nigeria is making a bold and strategic move to establish itself as Africa’s capital, as the Esports Federation of Nigeria (EFN) officially endorses a bid to host the 2028 Esports Nations Cup (ENC) — one of the most prestigious international Esports tournaments in the world.
With over 3.3 billion gamers globally and Esports audience now rivaling traditional sports in reach and engagement, competitive gaming has evolved into a powerful cultural, technological, and economic force. Nigeria, powered by one of the youngest populations on the planet, a rapidly expanding digital economy, and a vibrant creative sector is positioning itself at the center of that global transformation.
The bid is being led by EFN President Yahaya Maikori, with strategic coordination by the Bid Chairman, Ikechukwu Okoye, and national communications leadership from the Federation’s Director of Communications/Media -Ifeanyi Elumeziem.
Speaking on the ambition, Maikori emphasized that the bid goes far beyond sport: “This is about jobs, youth empowerment, tourism, technology, and placing Nigeria firmly on the global digital map.”
Reinforcing the vision, Ikechukwu Okoye, Chairman of the Bid Committee, noted that “Nigeria is not just participating in the global Esports ecosystem, we are ready to host it. This bid reflects our confidence in our people, our infrastructure potential, and the immense talent of our youth. We intend to deliver a world-class experience that sets a new standard for Africa.”
According to EFN projections, hosting the four-week global tournament could unlock significant economic value for Nigeria. The event is expected to attract thousands of international visitors, including players, coaches, media teams, investors, influencers, and fans, creating a major uplift across tourism, hospitality, aviation, retail, and entertainment sectors.
Beyond tourism impact, the ENC is expected to generate thousands of jobs across event production, broadcasting, digital media, security, logistics, marketing, and technology operations. For Nigeria’s rapidly growing youth population, it represents a direct gateway into one of the fastest-expanding industries in the global economy.
The Director of Communications/Media, Ifeanyi Eluemezim highlighted the broader narrative: “This is a storytelling moment for Nigeria. We are showing the world that Africa is not on the sidelines of digital culture, we are active builders, creators, and hosts of global innovation.”
The bid also aligns with Nigeria’s wider national development priorities, including digital transformation, youth empowerment, creative economy expansion, and international tech partnerships. EFN believes the country is uniquely positioned to meet the hosting requirements, provided there is strong government backing and cross-sector collaboration.
Over the years, EFN has worked to transform esports in Nigeria from an informal subculture into a structured, competitive, and globally recognized industry. The 2028 ENC bid now represents its most ambitious step yet in that journey.
The Esports Nations Cup, organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, is a nation-versus-nation global tournament designed to ignite national pride through competitive gaming.
The inaugural edition will debut in Riyadh in 2026, bringing together more than 2,000 players from over 100 countries competing across 16 major game titles.
Following this launch, the tournament will begin rotating internationally from 2028 thereby opening the door for Nigeria’s historic bid to become the first African host nation.
