Play, History & Faith: How a Nigerian Game Designer Is Bringing Learning to the Table

AfriWoman Chats | Hosted by Tchiyiwe Chihana

Can familiar games offer new ways of engaging with history, culture and faith?

In this edition of AfriWoman Chats, Tchiyiwe Chihana speaks with Nigerian educational game developer Revd Dr Olajide A. Aderinto about his approach to designing games that encourage learning, reflection and participation.

Drawing on familiar formats, including Ludo and traditional card games, Aderinto has developed games that connect play with subjects ranging from Christian teaching to Nigerian history.

His work raises interesting questions about how games can communicate knowledge, bring generations together and create opportunities for African educational innovation.

Two approaches to learning through play

Redemption Ludo draws inspiration from biblical teachings, incorporating spiritual choices and obstacles into a familiar board-game structure. Aderinto explains the symbolism behind its design and his intention to encourage engagement with Christian principles.

The Pacesetters: Golden Jubilee Game & Quiz turns towards Nigerian history. Developed to commemorate Oyo State's 50th anniversary, it combines historical questions, images and card-based gameplay to encourage familiarity with the state's people, places and political heritage.

Together, the games illustrate Aderinto's interest in using accessible forms of entertainment to introduce educational subjects.

Watch the conversation

The conversation also explores the possibilities for wider engagement with educational games, including bringing people together through shared experiences of play.

About this feature: Redemption Ludo and The Pacesetters: Golden Jubilee Game & Quiz were supplied to African Voices Platform by their designer. AVP's independent critical assessment of the games' design, gameplay and educational value will be published separately.

Hosted by Tchiyiwe Chihana for African Voices Platform.