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
Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Association (NVRA) has congratulated Tolu Oguntimehin on his election as Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.
NVRA described his emergence as an opportunity to strengthen sports journalism and advance the welfare of members.
Oguntimehin emerged victorious at the FCT SWAN elective congress held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, defeating his challenger, Raphael Ekpang, by 88 votes to four.
In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of Nigeria Volleyball Reporters, Alhaji Ganiyu Oloyede described the election outcome as a testament to the confidence reposed in Oguntimehin by members of the association.
Oloyede expressed optimism that the new chairman would bring purposeful leadership, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to the development of sports journalism in the FCT.
He stressed that the responsibility of leading the association goes beyond occupying an office.
Oloyede noted that the new administration must prioritise members’ welfare, professional development, unity and the protection of their collective interests.
The NVR chairman also challenged the incoming leadership to create an enabling environment where sports journalists can thrive professionally, gain greater access to sporting events and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.
He particularly welcomed Oguntimehin’s commitment to establishing a ₦200 million financial base for the association, describing the proposed initiative as an ambitious step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable SWAN FCT.
Oloyede further emphasised the importance of collaboration among sports journalists, sports federations, government institutions and other stakeholders, maintaining that stronger partnerships would create more opportunities for members and improve the quality of sports reporting.
He urged the new executive to embrace transparency, accountability and open communication while ensuring that every member feels represented in the administration.
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new SWAN FCT leadership in promoting sports journalism, strengthening professional relationships and projecting Nigerian sports positively.
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