Maliyo Games partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to train African talents with skills in artificial intelligence and game development. The partnership aims to strengthen the continent’s fast-growing gaming industry.

The partnership will see graduates acquire globally recognized certificates and be impacted with practical training. This will ensure authenticity and brand quality in the African gaming market.

Officials from ASU visited Maliyo Games’ facility on April 16, where they interacted with trainees and explored opportunities to expand the initiative. The visit underscored a shared commitment to creating learning systems that combine global standards with local relevance.

Early results from the initiative show promising impact. Over 150 micro-credentials awarded to the first cohort of trainees since early 2026. Each participant received a certificate and digital badge from ASU, reflecting their competencies in game development and AI.

Founding Director of the Endless Games and Learning Lab at ASU, Mark Olilla said: ” This partnership is a significant step forward. The level of creativity and innovation demonstrated by African developers exceeded expectations. New phases in the gaming area and the AI system are being invented via these trainees and we hope for a broad impact across the African continent in General.”

Chief Executive Officer of Maliyo Games, Hugo Obi, believes that the initiative aligns with the company’s mission to nurture local talent and build a sustainable gaming ecosystem in Africa. Furthermore, he stated that combining structured learning, access to tools, and a strong community, the partnership is creating pathways for young people to thrive in the digital economy.

One of the beneficiaries, Ibrahim Karl, said the training provided hands-on experience through collaboration with multidisciplinary teams across Africa. Allowing him to work on live game projects and earn an internationally recognized certification.

Hugo Obi disclosed that the partnership long term goal is to train and certify 10,000 learners across Africa in AI and game development over the coming years. To achieve this, Maliyo Games will provide infrastructure, curriculum development, and a physical hub to foster innovation and collaboration.

Africa’s gaming industry is projected to exceed $5 billion by 2030 and this is driven by a youthful, tech-savvy population. Stakeholders believe initiatives like this partnership will and are already playing a critical role in positioning African developers to compete globally.

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Maliyo Games Nigeria!

Maliyo Games in Nigeria was started by Hugo Obi in 2012. The mobile game studio creates African-inspired games, featuring local narratives, characters, and culture. The company has produced over 40 mobile games.

Arizona State University!

Arizona State University is a public research university in Tempe, Arizona, United States. Founded in 1885 as Territorial Normal School by the 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature, the university is one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the United States.