Togolese football legend Emmanuel Adebayor has been named African Gaming Influencer of the Year at the Africa Gaming Expo 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.
The former Arsenal and Manchester City striker received the award from the Lagos State Governor Jimi Agbaje, Sanwo-Oluduring a ceremony on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
Adebayor succeeds Austin Jay Jay Okocha, who won the inaugural edition of the award in 2024. Okocha was present at the event to show his support for his fellow African football icon as he handed over the prestigious title.
Recognition for Adebayor’s Influence in the iGaming Industry
Adebayor, who serves as a brand ambassador for 22Bet, has played a crucial role in promoting the gaming industry across Africa.
His active engagement on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram has made him the most influential brand ambassador in Africa’s iGaming space.
Through his digital presence, the former Togo international has provided betting tips, match analyses, and gaming insights, helping 22Bet grow in popularity among football fans and punters. His efforts have drawn widespread recognition, with many acknowledging his influence in bridging football and online gaming.
Bashir Are, Chairman of the Federation of State Gaming Regulation of Nigeria, praised Adebayor’s contributions, describing him as a key figure in advancing Africa’s gaming sector.
He noted that the award serves as both a recognition of Adebayor’s work and an encouragement for him to continue driving innovation in the industry.
Adebayor’s Journey from Football to Gaming Influence
A former African Footballer of the Year (2008), Adebayor is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest strikers. He first made his name in European football with AS Monaco, where his performances earned him a move to Arsenal in 2006.
Under Arsène Wenger, he became a key player for the Gunners, enjoying a prolific 2007/08 season where he scored 30 goals in all competitions. His outstanding performances that year led to him being crowned CAF African Footballer of the Year.
Adebayor later had successful spells at Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur, before concluding his career in Turkey and Paraguay. Despite retiring from professional football, he has remained in the spotlight, leveraging his status to influence Africa’s booming gaming industry.
A Growing Legacy in Gaming and Digital Influence
Adebayor’s seamless transition from football to gaming ambassador has set a precedent for other sports personalities in Africa. His impact in the digital gaming space continues to grow, with his social media activity helping 22Bet establish a strong presence among sports bettors on the continent.
His recognition at the Africa Gaming Expo 2025 further cements his status as one of the most influential African sports figures beyond the football pitch.
With the gaming industry expanding rapidly in Africa, Adebayor’s role as a pioneer in sports and gaming influence is likely to inspire other athletes to explore similar avenues after retirement.
The Africa Gaming Expo 2025, themed “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech,” highlighted the intersection of sports, technology, and digital innovation.
Adebayor’s win reflects the increasing role that sports stars play in shaping Africa’s gaming and entertainment landscape.
