Nigerian software developer Shalom Rayhamen has valued her viral browser game, Lagos Life, at $1 billion. In a recent interview with Nigerian digital content creator Fisayo Fosudo, Rayhamen disclosed her valuation and dismissed a reported $100,000 offer to buy the game, calling it too low. Fosudo shared the interview on his YouTube channel on Wednesday.

Lagos Life, launched on October 1, 2026, has attracted widespread attention online and become one of Nigeria's most talked-about locally made games. The browser-based simulation lets players create characters, secure jobs, earn virtual naira, rent homes, socialize, and explore Lagos-inspired locations. The game draws inspiration from life-simulation titles such as The Sims, combining the concept with Nigerian culture and everyday experiences.

Players can explore various aspects of life in Lagos, including work, housing, transport, entertainment, nightlife, and food, with locations such as Amala Shitta and Quilox featured in the game. One of the key advantages of Lagos Life is that players do not need to download an application to access it, as it can be played directly through a web browser on phones and computers.

The game's popularity has attracted interest from businesses, with virtual advertising spaces potentially providing a revenue stream for the platform. However, the virtual naira in Lagos Life has no real-world cash value, and players cannot withdraw the money or convert it into real currency. Rayhamen's valuation of the game has garnered significant attention, particularly as Lagos Life continues to gain traction on social media.

The success of Lagos Life has renewed interest in locally themed browser games, following the viral reception of Lagos Run, another Nigerian-made game centered on driving a danfo around Lagos. Rayhamen's achievement has highlighted the potential of Nigerian-made digital games, showcasing the creativity and innovation of the country's software developers.

Shalom Rayhamen's Lagos Life has become a significant talking point in Nigeria's gaming community, with many praising her innovative approach to game development. As the game continues to grow in popularity, it will be interesting to see how Rayhamen and her team capitalize on its success and explore potential revenue streams.

The game's impact extends beyond the gaming community, as it showcases the potential for Nigerian developers to create engaging and innovative digital content. With Lagos Life, Rayhamen has demonstrated that Nigerian-made games can gain international attention and acclaim, paving the way for other developers to follow in her footsteps.

Key points

  • Nigerian software developer Shalom Rayhamen values her viral browser game, Lagos Life, at $1 billion.
  • Rayhamen dismissed a reported $100,000 offer to buy the game, calling it too low.
  • Lagos Life has attracted widespread attention online and become one of Nigeria's most talked-about locally made games.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.