NCC, National Sports Commission partner to build Nigeria’s E-sports industry

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) have begun a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s e-sports ecosystem, a move aimed at positioning the country as a key player in the rapidly expanding global digital sports economy.

The partnership followed an agreement reached during a meeting in Abuja last week between NCC Chairman, Idris Olurunbe, and NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade.

The two agencies agreed to work together to drive sports digitalisation, expand competitive gaming opportunities, and create an enabling environment for the growth of the e-sports industry in Nigeria.

Speaking at the meeting, Olopade said the collaboration reflects the NCC’s commitment to leveraging technology to transform sports development. He noted that stronger cooperation between the telecommunications and sports sectors would improve connectivity, attract investment and sponsorship, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global e-sports arena.

He stressed that private sector participation, particularly through corporate social responsibility initiatives, would play a vital role in building a modern, technology-driven sports ecosystem.

According to him, expanding broadband infrastructure and providing access to world-class gaming facilities are essential to preparing Nigerian gamers and athletes for international competitions.

In his remarks, Olurunbe described e-sports as a natural evolution of traditional sports with enormous economic and developmental potential. He said the initiative extends beyond sporting activities, offering opportunities for youth employment, digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and national branding.

The NCC chairman called for the establishment of gaming hubs, expansion of broadband capacity, and the implementation of supportive policies to harness Nigeria’s growing pool of digital talent.

As part of the collaboration, the NCC and NSC agreed to establish a joint technical working group that will develop a comprehensive roadmap for sports digitalisation. The roadmap will focus on creating structured e-sports leagues, strengthening digital infrastructure, and attracting corporate investment into the sector.

Industry stakeholders view the proposed NCC–NSC alliance as the first coordinated effort between Nigeria’s telecommunications and sports regulators to build a sustainable digital sports economy and position the country as a leading force in global e-sports.