E-sports Hero Haneef Wins N1M in Intense 80-Player Tournament

E-sports Hero Haneef Wins N1M in Intense 80-Player Tournament

E-sports took center stage in Lagos as Whatadeal Events hosted its second EAFC Challenge, drawing more than 80 passionate gamers from across the city. The tournament didn’t just crown a winner—it lit up the community with culture, energy, and the fierce spirit of competition.

The venue pulsed with excitement. Gamers sat shoulder-to-shoulder, eyes glued to screens, their hands gripping controllers as they battled for cash, bragging rights, and a growing legacy. It wasn’t long before one name stood out—Haneef Olabuntu.

The young champion showed impressive focus, sharp instincts, and smart strategy throughout the matches. When the final whistle blew, Haneef emerged victorious, taking home the top prize of ₦1 million. The crowd erupted, cheering a new hero in Nigeria’s fast-growing e-sports world.

“This isn’t just gaming—it’s community, competition, and culture,” said Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh, Managing Director of Whatadeal. “We are proud of the turnout and the passion we’ve witnessed today. The success of this second edition has reinforced our commitment to grow this into a national movement.”

From the moment the tournament kicked off, the atmosphere buzzed with youthful energy. Players weren’t the only ones feeling the adrenaline. Spectators, influencers, and entertainment lovers gathered in large numbers, turning the event into a cultural carnival.

There was more than just gameplay to enjoy. With live commentary, good music, and tasty refreshments, the tournament floor transformed into a lively space where people connected over a shared love for gaming and pop culture. It wasn’t just a tournament—it was a movement.

For Whatadeal Events, this success is a big win. Known mainly for helping Nigerians find exciting events, fun hangouts, and movie tickets, the brand is now carving out a deeper role. Through initiatives like the EAFC Challenge, it is connecting with the youth by blending entertainment with digital culture.

According to Mr. Bank-Olemoh, the EAFC Challenge will soon go beyond Lagos. Plans are underway to take the tournament to major Nigerian cities such as Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu. This move aims to discover more talent and build a strong e-sports community across the country.

He added, “We’ll be taking the EAFC Challenge on the road to reach more players in Nigeria.”

For players like Haneef, events like these are life-changing. They create platforms for young people to express their skills, make new friends, and be part of something bigger than themselves. Many participants left the venue with stories of thrilling matches, new rivals, and dreams of becoming national champions.

E-sports in Nigeria is still growing, but it’s catching fire fast. Events like the EAFC Challenge are not just keeping pace—they are setting the standard. With more youth tuning in, practicing hard, and finding confidence through gaming, this industry is gaining serious ground.

Whatadeal’s bold step to invest in this space shows how lifestyle brands can do more than just sell tickets or promote parties—they can build communities and inspire futures. With the right support, many believe Nigeria could soon become Africa’s leading hub for e-sports.

This year’s EAFC Challenge proved one thing—gaming is no longer just a pastime. It’s a platform. It’s a passion. And for champions like Haneef, it’s a path to greatness.