Sports
Changing the Game: How Gaming Empowers Today’s Youth
…As E-Sports Debuts at Gateway Games
By Joel Ajayi
As part of ongoing efforts to create sustainable job opportunities for millions of talented Nigerian youths, the E-Sports Federation has declared that gaming is now a tool for empowerment—not a crime, as it was once widely perceived.
This message was delivered by the Chief Operating Officer of the E-Sports Federation on Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the official debut of eSports at Nigeria’s Olympics-style event, the National Sports Festival.
“This demonstration is more than just a showcase—it is a validation,” he said. “A validation that a game controller can be a tool for excellence. That gaming is not just a phase, but a profession. That the next generation of Nigerian exports will include not only footballers but also gamers, developers, and digital entrepreneurs.”
She described eSports as a dynamic, multi-dimensional discipline requiring data analysis, strategic thinking, communication, leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure. At its core, he emphasized, eSports is a form of digital literacy—exactly the kind of skill set demanded by the 21st-century economy.
“Esports is taking the stage—and with it, the voice of an entire generation that has long been ignored, misunderstood, and underestimated,” he said.
“We are here today to celebrate young people who have dedicated themselves to a rapidly evolving and globally growing industry: eSports and the broader video game ecosystem.
“We are showcasing a largely misunderstood group of young talents who have empowered themselves through gaming—staying away from crime and earning income by doing what they love.
“Today, we affirm that gaming is not a crime. Gaming is a profession. Gaming is a pathway to economic empowerment. And eSports is indeed a legitimate part of the sports sector. This is what the National Sports Commission has acknowledged by including us in the Festival.”
Addressing common misconceptions, he clarified the distinction between eSports and gambling.
“The video game industry is fundamentally different from gambling,” he said. “While there may be a gambling element in some areas, eSports is about talent, strategy, and fair play—not chance.
“Today, gaming represents empowerment. Years ago, football was misunderstood. Today, it’s a global profession. In the same way, we are witnessing the rise of a new sport that is gaining serious ground.
“It’s important to recognize that this is not the gambling industry—it is the video game industry.
“Today, we are staging a demonstration. But by Enugu 2026, eSports will be on the medal table—and that is our goal.”
Sports
NVBF President, Engr Nimrod Urges Families to Embrace Healthy Living at HOBA Novelty Sports
Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has called on Nigerian families to adopt healthy living habits through regular participation in sporting and fitness activities.
Nimrod made the call on Sunday during the third edition of the Hoba Development Association, Abuja Chapter, novelty sports event held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
He noted that physical activities such as sports are vital to fostering family bonds, community interaction, and overall well-being.
“The rate of health-related incidents such as slumping is increasing, but regular exercise helps improve the health of both parents and children,” he said. “Events like this bring families together, allowing parents and children to interact and know each other better.”
Also speaking, the stand-in Chairman of the Hoba Community, Barrister Nathan Naandeti, highlighted the significance of the annual novelty games, describing them as a unifying platform for members of the community.
“It’s something we do every year to promote unity, togetherness, and fitness among our people. Sports is part of who we are,” he stated.
Men, women, and children from the Hoba community participated in various sporting activities, including volleyball, badminton, football, and aerobics—all aimed at encouraging relaxation, fitness, and bonding among families.
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