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2024 Olympics: Lagos Gains Global Spotlight with E-Sports

Published

9 months ago

Aug 9, 2024.

2024 Olympics: Lagos Gains Global Spotlight with E-Sports Roundtable

In a bold demonstration of foresight, leadership, and innovation, the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) successfully hosted the Lagos Paris Olympics 2024 Esports and Sports Economy Roundtable at the Africa Station Doom, L’ile-Saint-Denis, in Paris, France.

Held under the theme “Exploring New Frontiers and Business Opportunities in Sports,” the event was spearheaded by LSSC Director-General Mr. Lekan Fatodu, who underscored the Lagos State government’s dedication to sports development.

He emphasized the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to achieve sports excellence and foster global partnerships.

Fatodu explained that the roundtable was designed to attract global attention to Nigeria’s growing sports sector, positioning Lagos as a key player in Africa’s sports development.

Participants at the event explored innovative strategies to unlock the economic potential of both traditional sports and the rapidly expanding esports industry, drawing on best practices from across Africa.

The roundtable featured discussions on various aspects of sports development, with a strong emphasis on esports—a sector gaining global traction.

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including senior government officials, potential investors, and representatives from major international sports organizations.

Panellists at the session included notable figures such as Désiré Koussawo, President of France Esports; philanthropist and sports enthusiast Lekan Ajisafe; Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Sports; and Mobolaji Ogunlende, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Youth and Social Development.

The discussions focused on creating opportunities across the sports value chain and how investors can capitalize on Lagos’ prominence to drive sports industry growth.

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Other experts shared insights on advancing the esports business in Nigeria, including Lanre Alfred, CEO of Old English; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Damilare Orimoloye; veteran sports broadcaster Deji Omotoyinbo; CEO of G2P Sports Limited, Tella Abiodun; and Dr. Kweku Tandoh, a renowned sports specialist and President of the Nigerian Badminton Federation.

Fatodu highlighted that the roundtable showcased Lagos’ commitment to advancing sports and fostering global collaborations.

He noted that one of the key outcomes of the event was reinforcing Lagos’ status as a promising destination for sports-related investments.

Several international investors expressed strong interest in the opportunities presented, citing the city’s strong infrastructure and proactive approach to sports development.

“As the Paris Olympics captivate global audiences, Lagos has seized the opportunity to shine a spotlight on its sporting ambitions. This roundtable has not only enhanced the city’s international reputation but has also opened new pathways for economic growth through sports,” he said.

“All eyes are now on Lagos to see how it will convert this momentum into concrete actions. As one participant remarked, Lagos has not just joined the global sports conversation—it’s positioning itself to lead it,” Fatodu emphasized.

The Lagos Paris Olympics 2024 Esports and Sports Economy Roundtable is likely to be remembered as the event that heralded Lagos’ rise as a major player in the international sports arena, paving the way for exciting developments in sports across Africa and beyond.

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