The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing the esports industry in Lagos.
At a recent meeting with the winners of the Onile Esports Cup, the Honourable Commissioner pledged continued support for esports initiatives like the Onile Esports Cup led by CADE Esports, Gameevo Esports, Nexal Gaming, and Gamepride.
The courtesy visit, attended by key figures from Lagos’ growing esports ecosystem, was covered by Nexal Gaming and saw the participation of Paul Bakare. Kunmi Adenipebi represented Gameevo Esports and CADE Esports, while Uchenna Uzoma represented Gamepride. Winners from 16 out of the 20 local governments who excelled in the Onile Cup tournament also had the privilege of speaking with the Commissioner and taking pictures, discussing their achievements and future in esports.
Honouring Oside Oluwole “KHODED”: Guinness World Record Pursuit
A key moment of the meeting was the recognition of Oside Oluwole KHODED, the Guinness World Record holder for the longest videogame marathon playing a soccer game. Supported by CADE Esports, Gameevo Esports, 10N8E, Nexal Gaming, and Pop Central TV, Oluwole’s record-breaking journey brought attention to the Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria (Ogun State), as he used the event to raise funds and awareness for spinal injury victims.
Commissioner Mobolaji, inspired by Oluwole’s determination, pledged ₦100,000 to support his efforts. The Commissioner praised Oluwole’s ability to use gaming to create social impact and drive fundraising efforts for a noble cause.
The Commissioner for Youth shows Support for the Onile Cup and CAGE 24 Esports Championship
The Commissioner also pledged his continued backing of the Onile Cup Championship, a key part of the upcoming CAGE 24 Esports Championship by CADE Esports, which is set to conclude on November 30, 2024, with over ₦10 million in prize money.
Spearheaded by CADE Esports and Gameevo Esports, in collaboration with top Esports influencer, PlayWithTomide along side Nexal Gaming and Gamepride, the Onile Cup and CAGE 24 have become integral to Lagos’ thriving esports scene, providing local players a platform to compete on a national level.
Kunmi Adenipebi, representing Gameevo Esports, highlighted the vast opportunities available for esports talents, both locally and internationally. He emphasized the potential for Nigerian gamers to be scouted by global esports organizations, noting that teams like ParisSaint-Germain (PSG) are now establishing their own esports outfits and actively seeking to connect with talents from Nigeria.
Adenipebi further discussed the importance of creating pathways for Lagos’ esports talents to gain international exposure and opportunities to be signed by prestigious teams around the world.
He also spoke about additional initiatives that can be taken to develop the local scene, including collaborations with international organisations and hosting more high-profile tournaments in Lagos to attract global attention whilst also highlighting ways to connect with the Local Governments
Empowering Youth Through Esports and Public-Private Collaboration
Commissioner of Youth, Mobolaji, reaffirmed that the Lagos State government is dedicated to empowering young people through esports. By working closely with CADE Esports, Gameevo Esports, Nexal Gaming, and Gamepride, the government aims to foster youth engagement, talent development, and community building through gaming.
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing esports infrastructure and creating sustainable opportunities for young athletes.
This strategic partnership between the government and the esports community is poised to elevate Lagos as a key hub for esports in Nigeria and across Africa, offering local talents a chance to shine on the global stage.
Last Updated on November 12, 2024
