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By Nana Theresa Timothy
The Game Development Workshop in Jos, organized by Gameverse Africa, brought together aspiring game developers, industry experts, and tech enthusiasts to explore the growing opportunities within the video game industry. The event aimed to introduce participants to game creation, interactive technology, and career paths in the gaming sector.
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Keynote speech by Bashir Sheidu
The event kicked off with a keynote address by Bashir Sheidu, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of nHub, who spoke on “Building a Sustainable Tech & Game Ecosystem in Northern Nigeria.” nHub, the first innovation hub in Northern Nigeria, has played a crucial role in developing young tech talents in the region.
Mr. Bashir Shaidu
Mr. Sheidu expressed excitement about the presence of young, passionate individuals eager to dive into game development. Sharing his journey from a university computer science student to a tech advocate, he emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership in strengthening the northern tech ecosystem.
Addressing misconceptions about the region, Mr. Sheidu highlighted the need to change the narrative that Northern Nigeria is unsafe and lacks opportunities. He stressed that the gaming industry presents immense benefits, and young minds should seize these opportunities. Encouraging attendees to engage actively, he reminded them that “Information is power.”
Youth Innovation: The Future of Game Development
One of the most exciting aspects of the event was an exhibition by young children aged 6-10, showcasing their creativity in game development and animation. Mr. Paul Mike, an educator and coach advocating for children’s involvement in gaming, applauded the young participants, emphasizing that early exposure to technology can shape future innovators in the industry.
Breaking into Game Development with Tamar Minimah
Tamar Minimah, Lead Game Developer at Six Path Studio, took the stage to discuss “Understanding the Fundamentals of Video Game Development.” Drawing from his six years of experience in game development, he provided a step-by-step guide for beginners looking to enter the field.
Mr. Tamar Minimah
He outlined the essential tools needed to get started which includes:
- A computer or laptop
- A game engine (e.g., Unity Engine)
- A programming language
- An understanding of game components
Tamar reassured the audience that breaking into the gaming industry is not as difficult as it seems. With dedication and access to learning resources, anyone passionate about gaming can carve out a career in game development.
Diverse Career Paths in Gaming with Louis Whyte Jonah
Louis Whyte Jonah, a Game Advocate and UX Designer at Gameverse Africa, delivered an insightful session on “Starting Out in the Video Game Industry: Career Paths & Action Plan.”
Mr. Louis Whyte Jonah,
He emphasized that not everyone in the gaming industry is a game developer. The sector offers various career paths, including:
- Game Design
- Storytelling and Narrative Writing
- User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Design
- Game Art and Animation
- Quality Assurance (QA) Testing
- Marketing and Community Management
Jonah pointed out that the gaming industry is an integral part of the tech ecosystem, though it is often overlooked. He encouraged attendees to explore different roles within the sector, reminding them that game development is a multidisciplinary field.
Game Development as a Tool for Economic Growth
The workshop underscored the economic potential of the gaming industry in Nigeria. With global revenues surpassing $200 billion, the video game industry presents lucrative opportunities for developers, designers, and entrepreneurs. By nurturing local talent and fostering a supportive ecosystem, Northern Nigeria can position itself as a hub for game development in Africa.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop
- Northern Nigeria has immense potential in game development, and initiatives like this workshop are crucial in shaping the industry.
- Access to the right tools and knowledge can make game development more accessible for aspiring developers.
- The gaming industry is diverse, offering opportunities beyond just coding, including storytelling, design, and marketing.
- Collaboration and innovation are key drivers for growth in the tech and gaming ecosystem.
- Early exposure to technology is vital, as seen in the creativity displayed by young children during the exhibition.
Conclusion
The Game Development Workshop in Jos was a groundbreaking initiative that opened doors for many young tech enthusiasts to explore the gaming industry. Through engaging discussions, hands-on experiences, and networking opportunities.
As Gameverse Africa and nHub continue their efforts to grow the gaming ecosystem, the future looks promising for Northern Nigeria’s game development industry. With more workshops, mentorship programs, and community-driven initiatives, Nigeria could soon emerge as a key player in Africa’s gaming sector.
