Apple, Google spotlight Lagos gaming studio Maliyo
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Two of the world’s biggest tech firms, Apple and Google, have recognised Lagos-based Maliyo Games for championing African creativity through gaming.
Apple announced in a statement that its upcoming Nigeria Independence Day editorial will feature Maliyo’s standout titles, including Safari City, Crazy Ludo, Whot King, and Secret Letter. The games combine familiar mechanics with African-inspired narratives, art, and music.
Earlier this year, Google Play selected Maliyo for its global #WeArePlay campaign, a film series highlighting diverse developers shaping the future of gaming. The feature tells the story of Maliyo’s founder, Mr Hugo Obi, and the studio’s journey from Lagos to global platforms.
Mr Obi said the recognition validated the studio’s vision. “This recognition from Apple, alongside our recent feature by Google, is another powerful validation of our vision,” he stated. “We are proving that African stories belong on the global stage.”
Apple noted that Maliyo’s editorial showcase would emphasise how the company’s games capture everyday African experiences and transform them into interactive entertainment. While Safari City explores bustling city life, Whot King reflects cultural traditions, all packaged in mobile-first gameplay.
Behind the spotlight is GameUp Africa, Maliyo’s talent development initiative. Since its launch in 2021, the programme has trained more than 6,000 aspiring developers across over 20 African countries in programming, game art, and audio design. Several graduates have gone on to work on acclaimed projects and establish their own studios.
Looking ahead, the company announced that it would host MaliyoCON 2025, its first developer-led gaming conference, in Lagos this December. The event will bring together creators, investors, policymakers, and innovators to discuss how African storytelling can shape the global gaming industry.Founded in 2012, Maliyo Games has produced more than 40 titles, positioning itself as a cultural ambassador through gaming. With international recognition from Apple and Google and a strong developer pipeline through GameUp Africa, the studio continues to push boundaries in African game design.
