By Gamr Africa has launched a video game development and esports training hub in Lagos, aiming to train 5,000 participants in its first year and boost Nigeria’s growing gaming industry. The facility, developed in collaboration with the French Embassy and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), is designed to equip young Nigerians with essential skills for the global gaming sector.
The initiative seeks to position Nigeria as a key player in the multi-billion-dollar digital entertainment industry by providing training for game developers, designers, and esports entrepreneurs. Chief Executive Officer of GamrLab, Eniola Edun, emphasized the need for education and awareness to drive the industry’s growth, noting that misconceptions—such as equating gaming with betting—have hindered progress.
Edun pointed out that beyond funding and infrastructure, the primary challenge is a lack of understanding of gaming’s economic potential. She stressed that government support in education, funding, and infrastructure is critical for the industry’s sustainability, as video gaming has created millionaires worldwide but remains largely overlooked in Nigeria.
Despite backing from private and international investors, Edun lamented the lack of local institutional and government support. She called for greater involvement to ensure the industry’s expansion and its potential contributions to Nigeria’s economy.
French Embassy Regional Audiovisual Attaché, Christophe Pecot, explained that the decision to support GamrLab was based on confidence in its ability to shape the future of esports and game development in Nigeria. He highlighted the initiative’s role in equipping young creatives with the skills needed to thrive in the sector.
Meanwhile, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa, praised the project for bridging technology, creativity, and business. Represented by Acting Director of Innovation and Technology Management, Olayinka Adewunmi, he noted that the hub would foster collaboration across disciplines and help students transition from gaming consumers to creators.
