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    Lagos to host inaugural Africa Gaming Expo

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    Chairman, the Federation of State Gaming Regulation of Nigeria, Mr Basir Are, has said that the scheduled “Africa Gaming Expo” (AGE), LAGOS 2024, is put together to discuss and examine the regulatory frameworks, emerging trends, challenges, opportunities, and prospects in the Africa Gaming Market, adding that the first-ever conference would serve as a point of convergence and confluence for key players in the industry across the world.

    Are, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority, made this known on Friday at a press conference held in Victoria Island, Lagos, pointing out that the Gaming Industry had not only become a major economic activity but also a strong thrust in the financial technology (FINTECH) evolution globally.

    He said that the themed: “Exploring the Future of Africa’s Gaming Market: Emerging Trends, Prospects and Opportunities,” scheduled to hold in Lagos from March 12th to 15th, 2024, and promoted by Africa Gaming Expo Limited and endorsed by The Federal Ministry of Tourism of Nigeria, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Botswana Gambling Authority, Ghana Gaming Commission, National Gambling Board of South Africa, among others, was conceived as a pivotal gathering that portends to foster and strengthen collaboration among leading stakeholders in the global gaming community.

    This was just as Are disclosed that the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as Chief Host, would deliver the keynote address at the conference, which would feature participants drawn from Africa and globally would further propel vertical and horizontal synergy through the exchange of ideas and peer reviews among Industry experts, leaders, and stakeholders within Africa and the Global Market and also address some of the thorny operational concerns faced by operators across Africa as part of its objectives.

    “This event is scheduled to be held at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria from March 12th to 15th, 2024. Its main objective is to further propel vertical and horizontal synergy through the exchange of ideas and peer reviews among Industry Experts, leaders, and Stakeholders within Africa and the Global Market. It will also address some of the thorny operational concerns faced by operators across Africa.

    “The Africa Gaming Expo is promoted by Africa Gaming Expo Limited and endorsed by The Federal Ministry of Tourism of Nigeria, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Botswana Gambling Authority, Ghana Gaming Commission, National Gambling Board of South Africa, International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA Africa), Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority in collaboration with the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria.

    “The Keynote Address at the Expo will be delivered by the Chief Host, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    “The Expo is an impactful event that presents networking opportunities to gaming stakeholders,” he said.

    Speaking further, Are said the Expo which would feature an Award Ceremony, among others would equally feature panel discussions, and insights on topics such as Regulations, Responsible Gaming, Market Trends, Customer Behavior, the Impact of Technology, Emerging Trends, Social Impact, and Compliance Challenges amongst other prevalent issues in the industry from array of speakers who were highly experienced industry experts in gaming and technology from Malta, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, South
    Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria.

    “This inaugural edition of the Expo is coming at a time when the gaming sector in Africa is facing exponential growth. It will be a veritable avenue for industry leaders, regulators, stakeholders from allied industries, and interested participants to discuss how to sustain the growth and ultimately seek options to develop and export African gaming platforms globally,” he said.

    On the challenges facing the industry, Are said it was two prongs both on the sides of the operators and the regulators, listing them to include multiple taxation and multiple licencing, as well as the issue of gaming standards.

    He said the stakeholders in the industry was resolved to ensure that Africa did not become a dumping ground for gaming machines and gaming products.

    “So we want to make sure among the regulators across the continent, we have standardization in terms of gaming equipment.

    “Additionally, we also want to have a kind of reciprocity enforcement to deal with illegal operators in the continent. When we have reciprocity enforcement and agreement among regulators on the continent, we would be able to enforce law efficiently.

    “And that will also help us curb underage gambling and improve responsible gambling also. Those are two issues: one is underage gambling and the other is responsible gambling,” Are said.

    Also speaking, Project Coordinator, Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) Lagos 2024, Mrs. Adenike Oyebamiji, said the Expo was put in place to bring together different industries to touch point on issues that are operating in the industry.

    She equally noted that the inaugural edition of the Expo was coming at a time when the gaming industry in Africa was witnessing exponential growth.

    “It would be a veritable avenue for industry leaders, regulators, stakeholders, interested participants, among others to discuss how to sustain the growth and ultimately seek options to develop and export Africa’s gaming platform globally,” she said.

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    Ogun State gears up for historic 2024 national sports festival

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    2024 National Sports Festival Ogun

    Ogun State is set to host the 2024 National Sports Festival, with Premium Trust Bank as lead sponsor, promising a world-class sporting event

     

    The **Federal Government** has commended **Ogun State** for its dedication to hosting a **world-class National Sports Festival (NSF)** as preparations for the **Gateway Games 2024** reach advanced stages.

    Also read: Ogun State to boost tourism through cultural networking and Adire fabric revitalisation

    On **Wednesday in Abeokuta**, the **Local Organising Committee (LOC)**, backed by the **National Sports Commission (NSC)**, officially unveiled **Premium Trust Bank** as the **lead sponsor** of the event in a **record-breaking sponsorship deal**.

    Chairman of the **NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko**, praised Ogun State’s **exceptional commitment** to organising a **seamless and memorable** festival. He also highlighted the **crucial role of corporate sponsorships** in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.

    “The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the **2024 National Sports Festival** is a testament to the rising confidence of the **private sector** in Nigerian sports. Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to **exceptional standards**,” Dikko said.

    Beyond the competition, Dikko emphasised the **festival’s impact** on **tourism, job creation, and economic growth** in Ogun State.

    “The **Gateway Games 2024** will not only showcase **athletic excellence** but will also **boost local businesses**, create **employment opportunities**, and promote Ogun State as a hub for **sports and economic development**,” he added.

    The **National Sports Festival**, often referred to as the **Nigerian Olympics**, is owned by the **NSC** and will feature **over 20,000 participants** from **36 states and the FCT**, with the introduction of **Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)** as the **38th state**.

    Scheduled to run from **16 to 30 May 2025**, the festival is set to be **one of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s history**.

    “This festival is more than just a sporting event; it is a **celebration of talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian sports**. With Ogun State’s level of preparation and the commitment of all stakeholders, I have no doubt that **Gateway Games 2024** will be the most remarkable edition yet,” Dikko stated.

    The **NSC** has reaffirmed its **full support** for Ogun State, ensuring that all **necessary resources and enablers** are in place for a **successful and historic** event.

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    Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert

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    Phynofest 2025

    Phyno announces the return of Phynofest to Enugu in 2025, promising a bigger and better experience for fans. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration

     

    Phyno, the Nigerian rapper and music legend, has officially revealed that his highly anticipated annual concert, *Phynofest*, will be making a spectacular return to Enugu in 2025.

    Also read: Enugu to host 23rd national sports festival in 2026

    After a brief hiatus, the event, renowned for selling out in previous editions, is set to make a grand comeback, thrilling fans with a bigger and better show than ever before.

    Taking to social media to share the exciting news, Phyno expressed his excitement and anticipation for the event. He wrote, “Enugu, it’s about to be lit again! Phynofest is back, and this year we’re going bigger and better. You all have been asking for it, and now it’s time to make history again.”

    The popular rapper, whose real name is Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also shared that part of his visit to the state would involve discussions with the governor regarding plans for the November 2025 concert.

    Emphasising the importance of government support, Phyno noted that it would be crucial in ensuring the event’s success and boosting tourism in the state.

    Since its inception, Phynofest has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated and iconic music festivals. Known for its electrifying performances, star-studded lineups, and thrilling atmosphere, Phynofest attracts thousands of fans to Enugu, the Coal City.

    The concert has previously featured some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Olamide, Flavour, and Zoro, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

    Phyno’s loyal fanbase, particularly in the Eastern region, eagerly awaits the event each year, and this year’s return has sparked widespread excitement.

    Fans have already begun speculating about potential guest appearances and surprises, with many commenting online about the anticipation. One fan expressed on Instagram, “We’ve missed this! Phynofest always brings the whole state together.”

    Phyno, known for his distinctive blend of rap and indigenous Igbo sounds, continues to shape the Nigerian music landscape.

    His influence spans beyond the music scene, with his cultural contributions making him a significant figure in the Eastern part of Nigeria and throughout the country.

    Phynofest has become a symbol of this cultural impact, drawing attention to the state of Enugu while providing an unparalleled platform for music lovers to celebrate Nigerian talent.

    Though the official venue for the 2025 Phynofest is yet to be revealed, Phyno reassured fans that further announcements would follow soon, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next big update.

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    Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival

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    2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

    Katsina State will host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, promoting African cultural values, food security, and regional development

     

    Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North West, has been chosen to host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed *“African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”*

    Also read: Detty December in Lagos boosts economy, tourism, entertainment

    This prestigious event aims to unite key stakeholders to address security challenges affecting farming and agriculture across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    The announcement was made by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

    Scheduled for 2025, the festival will spotlight Katsina as a hub for cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and economic development.

    Governor Radda stated that the festival would emphasise African cultural values while advancing food security, peace, and development across the ECOWAS region.

    It is expected to attract local and international investors in agriculture, boosting economic opportunities in Katsina State.

    The festival will also create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including event management, tourism, logistics, and local markets. These opportunities will benefit the state’s youth, artisans, and small businesses.

    Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, highlighted the festival’s potential to stimulate demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation.

    The influx of visitors will boost the local economy while showcasing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage.

    Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, commended Governor Radda for his warm reception and unwavering support, describing the upcoming festival as a landmark event for the region.

    The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival is expected to be a transformative event, reinforcing Katsina State’s role as a cultural and agricultural leader in West Africa.

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