ABUJA, Nigeria — Approximately 60 million Nigerians engage in gambling daily, contributing to a rapidly growing industry valued at between N500 billion and N600 billion, according to Micheal Eja, Director-General of the Cross River State Lottery and Gaming Agency.
Speaking at an event in Abuja, Eja highlighted the booming state of Nigeria’s gambling industry, noting that despite significant growth, 90% of the market remains untapped.
“The betting industry is worth about $1 billion in Africa. Lagos State alone generated $243 million in revenue last year,” Eja revealed, as reported by Tribune.
The Director-General pointed to the increasing popularity of gambling across the country, with more individuals participating and becoming aware of its opportunities.
“Gambling is becoming increasingly popular, and more people are beginning to understand its essence,” he stated.
Eja also emphasized the role of the gaming industry in contributing to national development, particularly through wealth redistribution and job creation.
“The gaming industry sells hope, aids in wealth redistribution, and creates jobs in Nigeria. Over time, we will see an increase in the revenue that the gambling sector contributes to nation-building,” he added.
Nigeria’s online gambling and betting industry has seen rapid growth, driven by advances in technology, increased internet access, and evolving regulations.
This thriving sector appeals to a wide range of people, with some participating for entertainment and others pursuing it as a source of income, with some even making a living from it.
As the industry continues to expand at a fast pace, the need for responsible practices and user protection remains critical.
Although Nigerians have easy access to information about gambling and betting, there is a pressing need for users to be directed towards legally operated platforms.
These platforms should provide accurate information, secure betting tools, and a reliable environment, ensuring that users can gamble and bet safely online.
By choosing licensed and regulated platforms, users can protect themselves from fraud, access customer support, and enjoy a more secure and responsible gambling experience.
As the industry grows, promoting safe, reliable, and legally compliant sites is essential for fostering a healthy betting culture in Nigeria, where both fun and financial opportunities can be pursued in a protected online space.
