VIDEO: Players Must Step Up: Industry Voices Highlight Professionalism Gap in African Esports
Stakeholders say talent alone isn’t enough as branding, discipline, and self-investment become critical to growth
At Lagos Gaming Week 2026, conversations around the growth of esports in Africa took a critical turn as industry stakeholders emphasized a missing link in the ecosystem: player professionalism.
While much of the industry’s focus has been on tournament organizers, platforms, and production, speakers highlighted that players themselves remain one of the most important pillars of the ecosystem.
“Players have a very, very important role to play,” one stakeholder noted, stressing that the success of esports depends on a balanced, mutual effort between organizers and participants.
According to Kunmmi Adenipebi the founder of Naija Game Evo (NGE) and also a pioneer and stakeholder in Nigeria’s esports industry, the relationship between players and the broader ecosystem is inherently symbiotic. While organizers and platforms continue to build opportunities, players must equally invest in themselves not just financially, but through time, discipline, and personal development.
This includes something as simple, yet impactful, as presentation and branding.
“There are times we organize photoshoots and players show up unprepared even without basic grooming,” the speaker revealed, pointing to a wider issue of how seriously players approach their careers.
In an era where visibility and perception play a major role in success, players are being urged to treat every appearance as a professional opportunity. Comparisons were drawn to global sports leagues like the English Premier League, where athletes consistently present themselves as polished brands both on and off the field.
Every tournament whether local or international is now seen as a platform for exposure, growth, and advancement.
“Every opportunity you have to showcase yourself… is an opportunity that takes you to the next level,” the speaker added.
As Africa’s gaming industry continues to expand rapidly, the message is clear: infrastructure alone is not enough. For the ecosystem to truly thrive, players must evolve alongside it embracing professionalism, personal branding, and a long-term mindset.
With increasing global attention on African esports, the responsibility is no longer just on organizers to build the stage but on players to show up ready to own it.
