This past weekend, CAGE24, Africa’s annual esports and gaming extravaganza, brought the gaming community to life with thrilling competitions, vibrant performances, and an electrifying atmosphere that celebrated the culture and diversity of gaming across the continent. Organized in collaboration with Game Evo Esports, Eventful Plus, Gamepride, BetNaija Foundation, Aniwe Convention, and Nexal Gaming, the event transcended the boundaries of gaming, proving that esports is more than a niche—it’s a thriving, integral part of modern African culture.
The journey to the grand stage began earlier this year, with regional qualifiers taking place throughout September. Gamers from all corners of Africa competed in 11 game titles, showcasing their skills in both globally recognized games and locally cherished ones. Titles like EAFC, Call of Duty Mobile, Freefire, Street Fighter VI, Mortal Kombat 1 and PUBG Mobile drew massive attention, while unique additions such as Just Dance and Tetris demonstrated the versatility and inclusivity of the competition.
The grand finals on Saturday were nothing short of spectacular, bringing together players, teams, and fans from Nigeria and beyond, we have qualified players all the way from Cameroon and other African Countries in attendance. The stage was set for unforgettable moments of triumph, heartbreak, and camaraderie, as competitors gave their all in pursuit of national and continental glory.
Gaming Meets Continental Pride
CAGE24 is more than just a championship—it’s a celebration of African identity and talent in the world of esports. By fostering both community and rivalry among gamers, the event has created a platform where African gamers can shine on a global stage. The presence of diverse gaming titles, including some that are less common in Nigeria’s esports ecosystem, reflects the commitment to inclusivity and the growing recognition of gaming’s potential to unite cultures.
From the intensity of gameplay to the energy of the casters who brought the action to life, every aspect of CAGE24 radiated passion. The audience played an equally vital role, with their cheers and enthusiasm creating an atmosphere akin to that of major sporting events.
The Power of Partnership
The success of CAGE24 can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of its partners. Game Evo Esports, Eventful Plus, Gamepride, BetNaija Foundation, Aniwe Convention, PlaywithTomide and Nexal Gaming brought their unique expertise to the table, ensuring an event that seamlessly combined entertainment, competition, and community building. Their shared vision of elevating African gaming culture was evident in the meticulous planning and execution of the championship.
Highlights
The presence of the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, was a significant highlight of CAGE24. His speech, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and developing the esports sector and promoting it to the international community, resonated deeply with the audience. His words provided much-needed assurance to the vibrant and talented players in attendance, painting a promising picture of esports as a viable and thriving career path in Africa.
While the overall event was undeniably spectacular, it was the peak moments—those electrifying displays of skill and passion—that truly defined the essence of esports. These moments brought the audience to their feet, showcasing the raw energy and competitive spirit that make gaming a powerful and unifying force.
One of the standout matches was the Street Fighter Finals, where two exceptional players, K.I.D and CHUX, delivered a breathtaking performance. K.I.D, with his masterful control of Cammy, showcased relentless combos and swift strikes, keeping the audience on edge. However, CHUX, piloting the iconic villain M. Bison, proved to be an unstoppable force.
The duel wasn’t just about technical skill; it was a narrative in itself. Watching M. Bison’s domination over a potential usurper reflected a deeper story of triumph for the “villain,” a rare twist in competitive gaming. The spectacle ended with CHUX clinching the CAGE24 Street Fighter Trophy, a moment that underscored the intensity and unpredictability of esports competition.
These moments are what esports is all about—excitement, storytelling, and the undeniable connection between players and their audience. Whether in the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat, CAGE24 captured the spirit of gaming, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who experienced it.
As the esports sector continues to grow, events like CAGE24 not only highlight the immense talent within the community but also inspire a generation to pursue their passion for gaming, backed by the promise of a brighter future.
One of the greatest highlights for the EAFC25 tournament didn’t come from the Finals of Killerfreak vs FaroukManzo which ended in a 5-1 defeat for Manzo, but instead came from FaroukManzo vs Adefola where FaroukManzo broke the tie of the match with an insane long range goal from way out at the 90th minute. This had the entire hall in an uproar! Talk about a national level highlight! You’d have been on your feet too if you were there, I know I was.
We had so many defining moments, V.Ent esports victory at Freefire, Sierra 7’s at Call of Duty Mobile, The event was graced the presence of ShaoDow an accomplished & talented artist from the United Kingdom, the list is quite a number, all we know is CAGE24 was an unforgettable experience.
Feedback and Opportunities for Growth: Elevating CAGE24 to New Heights
While CAGE24 was a resounding success that delivered an unforgettable experience for participants and fans alike, constructive feedback from attendees and viewers has provided valuable insights into how the event can evolve for future editions. These suggestions, rooted in the community’s passion for gaming, underscore the potential for CAGE24 to grow even further and cement its position as a world-class esports event.
Enhancing the Format and Structure
One recurring piece of feedback was the overwhelming scope of the event being condensed into a single day. With multiple game titles and activities, some attendees suggested extending CAGE24 into a multi-day event. This adjustment could provide more breathing room for competitions and allow attendees to fully immerse themselves in each segment, from intense gaming matches to engaging side events.
Additionally, some recommended separating key attractions, such as the Anime and Cosplay competitions, into dedicated time slots or standalone events. This approach would ensure that all aspects of the event receive the attention and appreciation they deserve while creating a more streamlined experience for attendees.
Improving Accessibility and Engagement
For those unable to attend in person, the livestream quality was noted as an area for improvement. Ensuring high-definition streams with minimal interruptions would not only enhance viewer satisfaction but also expand the event’s reach to a broader audience.
The idea of incorporating an opening ceremony to set the tone and a closing segment to recognize all players and teams was another thoughtful suggestion. This could include showcasing player stats, celebrating their achievements, and making them more marketable as professionals within the industry. Such initiatives would not only elevate the event’s prestige but also provide players with opportunities to grow their personal brands.
Strengthening Marketability
While CAGE24 excelled in creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere, feedback highlighted the need to focus on marketability. Establishing systems that spotlight players and teams—such as leaderboards, player profiles, and performance highlights—can further professionalize the event and attract sponsors and partners. Recognizing players on and off the stage would reinforce CAGE24’s commitment to fostering talent and building a sustainable esports ecosystem in Africa.
Looking Ahead
CAGE24’s success is a testament to the dedication of its organizers and the passion of the African gaming community. By embracing this constructive feedback, the event has the potential to set new standards for esports and gaming in Africa. With thoughtful adjustments, such as extending the event’s duration, improving livestream quality, and enhancing player recognition, CAGE24 can continue to grow as a cornerstone of the continent’s gaming culture.
Last Updated on December 12, 2024
