Lagos State authorities have taken a firm stance against multiple gambling brands, declaring them illegal in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. These actions are considered to contravene the provisions of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Law 2021 in its amended form. The move impacts various sectors of the gambling industry in Nigeria, where both online and land-based gambling are subject to comprehensive regulation.
Illegal Operations and Lack of Licenses:
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) has accused these brands of operating without obtaining the necessary licenses from LSLGA, which constitutes a breach of Section 33(3) of the law. This section explicitly states that individuals or entities lacking a valid license or authorization from the Authority are prohibited from conducting or operating any gaming activity within the State.
List of Banned Companies:
The ban affects a substantial number of gambling companies operating in Nigeria. The list of prohibited brands includes:
Zebet
Betika
Gobet
MSport
22Bet
Afribet
Bestbet360
Bangbet
Betwazobia
Netbet
Nairamillion
Western Lotto
Elliest Lotto
Riderlotto
Peelslotto
Setlotto
Hamabet
Koretbet
Paripesa
Megabet
Livescorebet
Blackbet/Bettybingo
Cloudbet
Sportbet.IO
Hallabet
Oddspedia
N1bet
Ngawin
Millionairepowerplay
Lottomania
Firstbet
Betxperience
Giveraffle
Konfambet
Wakabet
Betfarm
Scrath2win
Chopbarh
Naijabet
Plentymillions
Nairapowerbet
Gamespay
Xtragoalsfantasy
Additional Developments:
In related news from Nigeria, Kambi’s Abios brand recently inked a deal to provide Oyawin with esports data, odds, and statistic feeds. This partnership enables Oyawin to access Abios’ esoccer solution, supporting various mobile widgets. Oskar Bonnevier Fröberg, CEO and Founder of Abios, expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the growth of esports in Nigeria through this collaboration.
Lagos State’s crackdown on unlicensed gambling operators underscores the importance of adhering to regulatory requirements in Nigeria’s gambling industry. With numerous brands facing restrictions due to non-compliance, the Nigerian gambling landscape continues to evolve in line with legal provisions. Additionally, partnerships like the one between Abios and Oyawin demonstrate the increasing interest in esports and data solutions within the Nigerian market.