NSC Backs Nigeria’s Bid to Host 2028 Esports Nations Cup
Oru Leonard
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s bid to host the 2028 Esports Nations Cup (ENC), describing the initiative as a strategic move to position the country as Africa’s leading destination for esports, digital innovation, youth engagement, and sports technology development.
The bid, officially endorsed by the Esports Federation of Nigeria (EFN), is being championed by EFN President Yahaya Maikori, with Bid Committee Chairman Ikechukwu Okoye overseeing strategic coordination and Director of Communications and Media Ifeanyi Elumeziem leading communications for the campaign.
According to the Commission, esports has evolved into one of the fastest-growing sectors in global sports and entertainment, attracting billions of players and audiences worldwide. NSC officials noted that Nigeria’s youthful population, rapidly expanding digital economy, and vibrant creative industry place the country in a strong position to host a world-class international esports tournament.
Speaking on the vision behind the bid, EFN President Yahaya Maikori said the project goes beyond competitive gaming.
“This initiative is about creating opportunities for young Nigerians, driving innovation, boosting tourism, generating employment, and firmly positioning Nigeria on the global digital map.”
Chairman of the Bid Committee, Ikechukwu Okoye, stressed Nigeria’s readiness to host the global esports community, noting that the country is prepared to set a new standard for esports events in Africa.
“Nigeria is not just participating in the global esports ecosystem; we are prepared to host it. This bid reflects our confidence in our people, our infrastructure potential, and the immense talent of Nigerian youth. Our goal is to deliver a world-class event that sets a new benchmark for Africa.”
The NSC stated that hosting the four-week tournament is expected to generate major economic benefits through increased activities in tourism, hospitality, aviation, entertainment, retail, and technology sectors. The event is also projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in broadcasting, event production, digital media, logistics, security, marketing, and technology operations.
Director of Communications and Media of the EFN, Ifeanyi Elumeziem, described the bid as a defining moment for Africa’s role in the global digital economy.
“This is a defining storytelling moment for Nigeria and Africa. We are demonstrating that Africa is not on the sidelines of global digital culture but actively contributing as creators, innovators, and hosts.”
The Commission added that the bid aligns with Nigeria’s broader national objectives on digital transformation, youth empowerment, sports development, innovation, and expansion of the creative economy.
The EFN has over the years intensified efforts to formalize and develop esports into a structured and globally competitive industry. The 2028 Esports Nations Cup bid is regarded as a major milestone in that journey and could see Nigeria emerge as the first African country to host the prestigious competition.
The Esports Nations Cup, organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, is a global nation-versus-nation esports competition designed to promote international rivalry and national pride through competitive gaming.
Its inaugural edition will debut in Riyadh in 2026 and is expected to feature over 2,000 players from more than 100 countries competing across 16 major game titles. From 2028, the tournament is scheduled to rotate internationally, presenting Nigeria with the opportunity to become the first African host nation.
The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at empowering Nigerian youth, strengthening the sports economy, and positioning Nigeria as a major player in the future of global sports and digital entertainment.
