Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa, has one of the largest and most active gambling markets on the continent. In 2025, gambling is legal in Nigeria but only certain forms of it are permitted by law. The Nigerian gambling market is regulated at both federal and state levels, but there are many grey areas due to inconsistent enforcement and outdated laws.
The Federal Government allows some gambling activities under the National Lottery Act of 2005 and other related laws, while some states (like Lagos) have their own independent gambling boards and rules.
Most gambling in Nigeria happens through sports betting, lotteries, and casino-style games. The use of mobile betting apps has grown very fast in recent years, especially among young Nigerians. However, the legality of online casinos remains unclear in some areas. Despite this, many platforms operate openly and are accessible through mobile phones.
Types of Legal Gambling in Nigeria (2025)
As of 2025, the following types of gambling are considered legal in Nigeria under specific regulations:
1. Sports Betting
This is the most common form of gambling in Nigeria. It is fully legal and regulated. Betting on football, basketball, and other sports is available at both physical shops and online apps.
Operators need to be licensed by either:
- National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) – for national licenses, or
- State-level gaming authorities like the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA).
2. Lotteries
Government-approved lottery games are legal. The NLRC oversees national lotteries. Popular games include:
- Naija Lottery
- Premier Lotto (Baba Ijebu)
- Western Lotto
Lotteries are widely accepted and played across all age groups.
3. Casino Gambling
Land-based casino gambling is legal but heavily restricted. Only a few licensed physical casinos exist in Nigeria. These casinos must be registered under the Casino and Gaming Machines (Prohibition) Act 1990, which is outdated and unclear but still in force.
4. Skill-Based Games
Games like poker and some local card games may be considered legal if proven to involve more skill than luck. However, this remains a grey area, and such games are often not officially regulated.
5. Online Gambling
There is no clear federal law that bans online gambling. Many licensed betting companies offer online platforms. However, online casino games (like roulette, blackjack, or slots) are not clearly regulated, yet they are still offered by most betting platforms.
Gambling Regulation Authorities in Nigeria
There are two main levels of gambling control:
1. National Level
- National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC): This federal body regulates national lotteries and online betting platforms with nationwide operations.
Website: www.nlrc.gov.ng
2. State Level
Each state can create its own gaming board. Notable ones include:
- Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA)
- Ogun State Gaming Board
- Rivers State Gaming Authority
These agencies handle licensing and enforcement within their states, especially for physical betting shops and casino premises.
Legal Online Betting Apps in Nigeria (2025)
The rise of mobile technology and internet access has led to the rapid growth of online sports betting apps in Nigeria. Most of the licensed betting companies also operate mobile-friendly websites and apps.
Top Legal Online Betting Apps in Nigeria (2025)
These platforms are fully licensed by the NLRC or state gaming boards:
- Bet9ja – One of the oldest and most popular betting companies in Nigeria.
- SportyBet – Fast payouts and simple interface, especially popular among youths.
- BetKing – Known for its agent model and football betting markets.
- NairaBet – Among the first online betting sites in Nigeria.
- 1xBet Nigeria – International brand with a local license.
- Merrybet – Licensed and trusted among Lagos-based bettors.
- Betway Nigeria – Globally recognized and operating legally in Nigeria.
- Paripesa Nigeria – Offers casino and sports betting under local license.
- CloudBet Nigeria – Offers crypto-friendly betting.
- AccessBet – A growing Nigerian-based betting platform.
All these platforms allow bets via mobile apps, USSD, or direct website access. They also offer payment methods like:
- Bank transfers
- ATM card payments
- USSD betting
- Mobile wallets
- Cryptocurrency (on some platforms)
Legal Land-Based Casinos in Nigeria (2025)
There are only a few legally operating land-based casinos in Nigeria. These casinos are usually located in hotels or entertainment centres in major cities.
Top Legal Physical Casinos in Nigeria (As of 2025)
- Federal Palace Hotel & Casino – Victoria Island, Lagos
Offers slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker. One of the most popular casinos in the country. - Transcorp Hilton Casino – Abuja
Located inside the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. Offers traditional casino games. - Le Meridien Hotel & Casino – Port Harcourt
Offers limited table games and slot machines. - Golden Nugget Casino – Lagos Mainland
Licensed and operating under local rules. - Ikeja Casino Lounge – Lagos
Small-scale gaming lounge approved under Lagos gaming rules.
Many other unlicensed or informal gaming houses exist, but only these few are recognized as legal under Nigerian law.
Gambling Age Limit in Nigeria
The legal age for gambling in Nigeria is 18 years and above. All licensed platforms are required to verify age and identity before allowing users to register or place bets.
Illegal Gambling Activities in Nigeria
Despite the laws, many illegal gambling operations still run across Nigeria. These include:
- Unlicensed betting shops
- Online platforms without proper registration
- Street gambling or card games with money stakes
- Unregulated lottery schemes
Enforcement is weak in many parts of the country, especially in rural areas. Authorities often raid illegal shops, but such operations continue due to demand and lack of strict policing.
Gambling Taxes in Nigeria
For Operators
Licensed operators must pay:
- Annual licensing fees
- Regulatory compliance charges
- Corporate tax on profits
For Players
There is no specific tax on player winnings as of 2025. However, some online platforms may deduct small service fees.
Challenges in Nigeria’s Gambling Sector
- Weak enforcement of rules
- Lack of updated laws for online gambling and mobile betting
- Addiction and youth gambling problems
- Unclear laws for online casino games
- Multiple regulators creating confusion
Future of Gambling in Nigeria
In 2025, discussions are ongoing in the Nigerian National Assembly to:
- Introduce updated laws covering online casino games
- Create a central gambling authority to harmonize regulation
- Develop stricter measures to prevent underage gambling
- Establish tools for responsible gambling awareness
As digital betting continues to grow, the Nigerian government is expected to take more steps to properly regulate, tax, and control the sector.
Conclusion
Gambling and betting are legal in Nigeria in 2025, but only certain types are allowed. Sports betting is the most common and widely accepted form. Online betting platforms are legal if registered with proper authorities. Only a few land-based casinos exist, and online casino games remain in a grey area.
People who want to gamble in Nigeria should always use licensed platforms to avoid scams and legal issues. The gambling market in Nigeria is growing, but reforms are needed to improve enforcement, protect players, and ensure the industry benefits the economy fairly.
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