Alliance Française Partners Gaming Communities for Anti-Violence Campaign in Port Harcourt
By Mr. Kwe, UniPort Correspondent
The rain couldn't dampen the spirits of a bus full of energetic gamers as they departed from Abuja Park at UniPort Mall, destination: change-making through gaming. Hosted by Alliance Française in partnership with Nexar Gaming Community, Females In Gaming, and Females In Gaming Network, this event merged competitive gaming with a crucial social message.
A Full House Despite the Weather
What was scheduled as a 10:00 AM departure turned into a 10:30 race against the rain, but the delay only added to the anticipation. With a 12-seater bus packed to capacity, UniPort students arrived fashionably late but with unmatched energy. The SEG Director of Sports joined the delegation, underscoring the university's commitment to this innovative approach to social awareness.
Two Tiers, One Mission
The event brilliantly structured participation across two groups, each with age-appropriate gaming experiences:
Secondary Schools Section
By the time university students arrived around noon, secondary school participants were wrapping up their sessions. These young gamers had already competed in tournaments featuring Nickelodeon Kart Racing, Mario Kart Racing, Just Dance, and FC26. Notably, fighting games were intentionally excluded from this segment—a thoughtful decision that kept the focus on fun, collaborative competition rather than combat.
Each participant received a certificate of participation in the gender-based violence awareness campaign, taking home both memories and a reminder of their role in driving social change.
University Showdown
UniPort joined forces with UST and Ignatius University for the collegiate competition. The game lineup shifted to include Scrabble alongside Nickelodeon Kart Racing, with casual Mortal Kombat available for those seeking a challenge (though without formal prizes). This diverse selection ensured there was something for every type of gamer.
Beyond the Leaderboards
While the tournaments generated plenty of excitement, the real victory came from the panel sessions and discussions. Female gamers learned about the vast opportunities within the gaming industry—from professional esports to game development, content creation, streaming, event management, and community building.
The message was clear: the gaming industry needs more women, and these young gamers are exactly who the industry has been waiting for. Through workshops and mentorship moments, participants discovered that their passion for gaming could translate into viable career paths in Nigeria's growing tech and entertainment sectors.
Why This Matters
Using gaming as a vehicle for discussing gender-based violence is both innovative and strategic. Gaming spaces have historically struggled with inclusivity, but events like this are rewriting that narrative. By creating safe, celebratory spaces for female gamers while addressing serious social issues, organizers demonstrated that gaming communities can be powerful platforms for positive change.
The "Game Over Gender-Based Violence" event didn't just talk about ending violence—it modeled what inclusive, supportive communities look like in practice. Every match played, every controller passed, and every strategy shared reinforced a simple but powerful message: gaming is for everyone, and together, we can press pause on gender-based violence.
Looking Forward
As the bus rolled back to UniPort that evening, it carried more than tired gamers. It carried a community energized by possibility—students who now see themselves as both gamers and changemakers, competitors and advocates.
The gaming industry in Nigeria continues to grow, and events like this ensure that growth includes diverse voices and perspectives. When female gamers are celebrated, educated, and empowered, everyone wins.
Game over for gender-based violence? With communities like this, we're well on our way to that final boss battle.
The "Game Over Gender-Based Violence" event demonstrates how Nigeria's gaming community is leveraging the power of esports and digital entertainment to drive social awareness and create inclusive spaces for female gamers.