By Nurudeen Salihu London Bureau Chief
Technology technology technology. Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many Nigerian families: the PlayStation 5, a console that launched in 2020/2021 at around $500 (about ₦1,060,000 at today’s exchange rate of ₦2120 to $1). In most European markets, earning that amount might take about 50 hours of work at a regular wage. But here in Nigeria, where the average monthly salary is around ₦100,000, owning a PlayStation 5 remains a distant dream for many families across all regions—from Abia to Borno, Lagos to Kano.
This isn’t just about luxury; it’s about opportunity.
The Cost of Being Left Behind
If a child in Europe or the U.S. has had access to modern gaming technology for five years, they have soaked in cognitive, social, and even career advantages that many Nigerian children miss out on. While kids abroad have moved on from PlayStation 2 or 3, many Nigerian kids are still waiting.
Why does this matter? Because research shows that video games can improve cognitive abilities like problem-solving, spatial awareness, and faster decision-making. In fact, children who engage regularly with technology and gaming often develop skills that translate into better academic performance and readiness for tech-driven jobs.
For Nigerian parents, especially those in regions where resources are limited, this might sound expensive or even frivolous. But consider this: investing in technology today can open doors for your child to enter fields like game design, digital marketing, content creation, or software development—careers that are growing rapidly both locally and internationally.
Gaming as an Investment, Not a Luxury
The PlayStation 5 costs about ₦1,060,000. To a family earning ₦100,000 per month, this may seem impossible. But there are ways to approach this realistically: renting consoles, buying second-hand devices, or pooling resources at community centers. These aren’t just compromises; they’re stepping stones to digital inclusion.
Countries in Europe and Asia often rent gaming consoles for as low as $20 a week, making it accessible to many young people. This accessibility encourages creativity, learning, and even entrepreneurial skills like streaming or game review blogging—jobs that many Nigerians are increasingly embracing.
In Nigeria, gaming is still widely seen as a luxury or a waste of time. Many parents worry about distractions or associate consoles with only entertainment, ignoring the educational and career-building potential. This mindset, unfortunately, holds many children back, making it harder for them to compete on the global stage.
Why Parents Should Care
Not owning modern tech can indirectly limit a child’s growth. When gaming and technology are framed as “luxuries,” children might feel discouraged from aspiring or working hard toward acquiring skills that will be vital for tomorrow’s jobs.
Moreover, we now have examples of Nigerians who turned gaming and digital skills into successful careers—as professional streamers, developers, or digital entrepreneurs. Encouraging your child’s interest in gaming, balanced with education and responsibility, can be a path to success.
Addressing Regional Realities
We recognize that conditions vary across Nigeria—from the urban hustle of Lagos and Abuja, to the challenges in the North-East and South-South. Internet reliability, electricity, and income levels differ widely. But digital inclusion must not remain a dream.
Community tech centers, schools investing in digital infrastructure, and local gaming clubs are emerging across regions. Supporting these initiatives and encouraging your children to explore gaming responsibly can create local opportunities that ripple outwards.
Q&A for Nigerian Parents:
Isn’t gaming just a waste of time?
Studies show gaming boosts skills like problem-solving and cognitive speed. It’s not just fun; it’s training for the future.
How can I afford a PlayStation if I struggle to pay bills?
Renting consoles, buying second-hand, or visiting community centers are affordable alternatives that give your child access without breaking the bank.
The internet here is unreliable. How can my child game digitally?
Offline games exist, and internet coverage is improving. Plus, community centers and schools provide digital access in many places.
Won’t gaming distract my child from school?
With limits and balance, gaming can be a healthy break and learning tool, not a distraction.
What career opportunities can come from gaming?
Beyond playing, kids can become game developers, streamers, marketers, or digital content creators—professions growing fast in Nigeria and globally.
How do I support my child’s gaming interest responsibly?
Learn about the games, set boundaries, encourage educational content, and connect with community programs.
In Conclusion
Owning a PlayStation or access to modern gaming technology isn’t just about play—it’s about preparing Nigerian children for the digital future. It’s about giving them the tools to dream bigger, learn smarter, and compete globally.
As Nigerian parents—from every state and region—it’s time to rethink technology not as a luxury, but as an investment in our children’s future.
Envision Nigeria — Together, We Empower the Next Generation.
