Sanwo-Olu pledges support for Africa’s emerging gaming industry

Gov Sanwo-Olu

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Lagos — Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged his administration’s support for Africa’s gaming industry as it transitions from a fragmented, informal sector into a structured, globally competitive ecosystem.

Sanwo-Olu made the remarks at the 3rd edition of the 2026 African Gaming Expo held at Eko Hotels and Suites on Wednesday, themed “Africa’s Gaming Market: Frontier to Prominence.” He was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.

The governor noted that the sector, once operating on the margins of the formal economy, is now experiencing deliberate transformation driven by regulation, technology, and investment. “Today, what was once fragmented and unsettled is becoming structured, regulated, and globally competitive, and Lagos will continue to show support,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted that gaming intersects with technology, digital finance, sports development, and youth engagement, making it a key driver of economic growth. He added that when responsibly managed, the industry can generate employment, stimulate investment, and boost public revenue.

Bashir Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority, described the expo as a platform to position Africa in the global gaming ecosystem and unlock opportunities across allied sectors. He noted the event’s positive impact on tourism, local businesses, and international participation.

Peter Mebert, founder of Merbert Global Launchpad, encouraged African startups to leverage improved infrastructure and talent to scale globally. He emphasized the need for strong leadership, strategic expansion, and market understanding to compete internationally, warning that weak planning is a major cause of startup failures.

The expo featured sessions on regulatory collaboration, technological innovation, responsible gaming, youth empowerment, and sustainable investment across the continent.