- Lagos Games Week 2026 is happening on June 18–19 at two iconic Lagos venues
- Nigeria now has over 46 million active gamers, and this event is the biggest gathering of the country's gaming industry
- Registration is free, but there are important details you should know
If you are a gamer, a game developer, or just someone who has ever wondered why Nigerian gaming is suddenly everywhere, you need to be at Lagos Games Week this week.
Nigeria's gaming industry is no longer a side conversation. With over 46 million active players, a gaming market estimated at ₦5.6 trillion in 2025, and a generation of young developers building games that are reaching global audiences, the country is becoming one of Africa's most important gaming ecosystems. Lagos Games Week is where all of that energy comes together in one place — and this year's edition is the biggest yet.
Here is everything you need to know.
What is Lagos Games Week?
Lagos Games Week is Nigeria's premier annual trade fair and festival for the video games industry. It brings together game developers, esports players, investors, tech companies, and gaming enthusiasts from across Nigeria and the continent for two days of panels, competitions, showcases, and networking.
The event is backed by major industry partners, including Xbox, Maliyo Games, Kucheza Gaming, Games for Change Africa, and the French Embassy in Nigeria — a sign of just how seriously the international gaming community is taking Nigeria's growing market.
When and where is it?
This year's Lagos Games Week runs across two days at two different venues:
Day 1 — Thursday, June 18, 2026 Theme: BUILD COMMUNITY Venue: Xbox, Glover Road, Ikoyi, Lagos
The first day is focused on the industry side — developers, investors, and creators connecting, pitching, and building. If you are a game developer, a tech entrepreneur, or someone looking to break into the gaming industry, Day 1 is where you want to be.
Day 2 — Friday, June 19, 2026 Theme: PLAY WITHOUT BORDERS Venue: National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos
The second day is the big public event. The National Theatre will host gaming competitions, esports tournaments, an indie game showcase, a Game Jam, and the Next Gen Summit — a platform designed to inspire and equip the next generation of game and tech creators. This is the day for players, fans, and anyone who just wants to experience the best of Nigerian gaming culture.
What will happen there?
Lagos Games Week 2026 is packed with activities across both days. Here is what to expect:
Indie Game Showcase: Shortlisted Nigerian game studios will showcase their original games at no cost. This is your chance to play games built entirely by Nigerian developers — from mobile titles to PC experiences — before they hit the mainstream market.
Esports Tournaments: Competitive gaming competitions will run throughout Day 2, with prizes up for grabs. Given that Nigeria recently celebrated its first-ever Esports Nations Cup qualifier — Evetonghan Denyefa Callistus becoming the first Nigerian to qualify for the ENC — the competitive energy at this year's event will be electric.
The Game Jam: A hands-on game development challenge designed for learning, collaboration, and creativity. If you have ever wanted to try building a game, this is the most accessible entry point in Nigeria.
The Next Gen Summit: A dedicated platform for young Nigerians who want to build careers in gaming and tech. Speakers include Hugo Obi, Founder of Maliyo Games; Bukola Akingbade, Founder of Kucheza Gaming; Matthew Kreutter, Director of Learning and Engagement at Games for Change; and Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria's Honourable Minister for Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
Panel Sessions and Pitch Competitions: Industry leaders will discuss the future of Nigerian game development, the business of esports, and how to attract investment into the local gaming ecosystem.
Why this year's event matters more than ever
Nigeria's gaming story is at an inflection point. The numbers tell the story clearly: 600,000+ tech and creative graduates enter the workforce annually in Nigeria, the game development workforce is growing at 15% year-on-year, and the country has over 100 million mobile internet users — the largest potential gaming audience on the continent.
For years, Nigerian gamers consumed games built elsewhere. That is changing. Studios like Maliyo Games, Kucheza Gaming, and a new wave of indie developers are building games rooted in Nigerian culture, language, and experience. Lagos Games Week is the annual moment when this community comes together to celebrate how far it has come and map out where it is going.
International partners are paying attention too. Xbox is a venue sponsor. The French Embassy and Games for Change Africa are backing the event. Focus Entertainment's Chief Production Officer is speaking. This is no longer just a local event — it is Nigeria's gaming industry announcing itself to the world.
How to register for the Lagos Games Week
Registration for Lagos Games Week 2026 is free and open to everyone. There are no age restrictions — all are welcome to attend.
To register and secure your spot, visit: lagosgamesweek.com
For exhibitors, volunteers, or brands interested in sponsorship opportunities, contact the team directly at hello@LagosGamesWeek.com.
What to bring to the Lagos Games Week
• Your ID (for registration at the venue)
• A fully charged phone — you will want to document everything
• Business cards if you are a developer or industry professional
• An open mind — Nigerian gaming is about to show you something you have not seen before.
If you have been sleeping on Nigerian gaming, Lagos Games Week 2026 is your wake-up call. The industry is here, it is growing fast, and this week it is taking over the National Theatre.
