Edo State Esports Association seeks strategic partnership with MCDE

BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government is taking another significant step towards building a digitally empowered future as the Edo State Esports Association paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy (MCDE) to explore strategic collaboration aimed at expanding opportunities for young people through technology and innovation.

The delegation was received by the Honourable Commissioner for Communication and Digital Economy, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Jennifer E. N. Aisuan, and members of the Ministry’s management team at the Commissioner’s Office, Government House, Benin City.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment to harnessing the growing potential of esports as a platform for digital skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment.

Welcoming the delegation, the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, commended the Association for its forward-thinking vision and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting strategic partnerships that promote digital inclusion, innovation, and economic empowerment across Edo State.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Jennifer E. N. Aisuan, stated that the Ministry remains committed to initiatives that align with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, particularly programmes that leverage technology to create employment opportunities, inspire innovation, and equip young people with the skills needed to compete in the global digital economy.

Speaking on behalf of the Association, the Edo State Chairman, Mr. Dean Bezi, alongside Mr. Bright Igbineweka, described esports as a rapidly expanding global industry that extends far beyond entertainment. They noted that the sector is creating career opportunities in software development, game design, digital content creation, event management, marketing, animation, and emerging technologies, making it a powerful driver of economic growth and youth development.

Contributing to the discussions, Mr. Donatus Igiekhume and Mr. Frank Egbe Obawaye emphasized the enormous opportunities within the gaming and e-sports ecosystem. They noted that through strategic collaboration with the Ministry, more young people in Edo State can gain access to digital skills, innovation programmes, and career pathways that will prepare them for success in today’s technology-driven world.

Both parties explored potential areas of collaboration, including digital skills training, esports education, talent discovery, innovation programmes, technology-driven competitions, and other initiatives designed to equip Edo youths with globally competitive skills.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both organisations expressing optimism about a long-term partnership that will strengthen Edo State’s digital ecosystem, nurture emerging talent, and position the state as a leading destination for innovation, technology, and the creative digital economy.

As e-sports continues to gain global recognition as a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and economic opportunity, the proposed partnership represents another important step in Edo State’s commitment to empowering young people and building a future where technology drives inclusive growth and sustainable development.