Apple and Google, two of the world’s biggest tech giants, have turned the spotlight on Maliyo Games, reaffirming the Lagos-based studio’s role as a global champion of African creativity through gaming.
“This recognition from Apple, alongside our recent feature by Google, is another powerful validation of our vision. We are proving that African stories belong on the global stage,” Hugo Obi, founder, Maliyo Games, said.
He said that behind every global spotlight is a growing ecosystem of African talent. According to him, GameUp Africa has become the talent pipeline powering Maliyo’s creativity since its launch in 2021. Now in its fifth year, the program has reached over 6,000 aspiring developers across 20 African countries, equipping young Africans with skills in programming, game art, and audio design.
Obi also disclosed that Apple’s Nigeria Independence Day editorial featured Maliyo’s standout titles; Safari City, Crazy Ludo, Whot King, and Secret Letter — each blending familiar gameplay mechanics with African-inspired narratives, art, and music.
Earlier this year, Google Play selected Maliyo for its #WeArePlay campaign, a global film series celebrating diverse developers shaping the future of gaming.
The feature tells the story of Hugo Obi, Maliyo’s founder, charting the studio’s journey from Lagos to the world. It highlights not only Maliyo’s portfolio of games but also its groundbreaking talent initiative, GameUp Africa, which is building the next generation of creators on the continent.
“From the bustling city life of Safari City to the cultural tradition in Whot King, each title embodies authentic African storytelling packaged in mobile-first gameplay. Graduates of the program have gone on to work on acclaimed projects and start their own studios — proof that Maliyo’s commitment to empowering African storytellers through gaming is paying off.”
Obi also disclosed that Maliyo will host its first-ever developer-led gaming conference ‘MaliyoCON’ by December in Lagos, as a convergence for creators, investors, policymakers, and innovators to explore how African stories can drive the next phase of the global gaming industry.
“By convening industry leaders, Maliyo aims to cement Africa’s role not just as a participant, but as a cultural powerhouse shaping the future of mobile entertainment,” Obi said.
