Culture

• 
• Ayan Ahmed
• 21 hours ago

Gaming Meets Education as Nigerian Schools Join Global Esports Initiative

Nigerian schools have been encouraged to register for EGAMES, a new international esports competition open to public, government-run and independent schools. Co-created by the Varkey Group and the British Esports Federation, the initiative aims to bring students together through gaming while promoting digital skills, teamwork and international collaboration.

The Esports Federation of Nigeria has joined the initiative and will organise a national tournament. Top-performing school teams will earn the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the global finals in Dubai in April 2027. Nigeria is among 14 national esports federations supporting the competition.

The tournament, known as EGAMES DUBAI27, will feature EA SPORTS FC 27, Rocket League and a Minecraft building competition. Students enrolled during the 2026/27 academic year will be eligible to participate, with prizes including medals, scholarships, gaming experiences and equipment for school facilities.

Beyond competition, EGAMES aims to help young people develop communication, resilience, creativity and other digital skills that could create opportunities in gaming and technology. Organisers also plan to host an education summit in Dubai covering topics such as esports in schools, artificial intelligence, online safety, coaching and future skills.

With GEMS Education already supporting the initiative as an education partner, the organisers hope to expand international participation and establish esports as a platform for learning, cultural exchange and youth development. Nigerian schools can register through the official EGAMES website.