Betting guides
Is Betting Legal in Nigeria? Licences and State Rules
Yes. Sports betting is legal in Nigeria for adults aged 18 and over who bet with a licensed operator. What changed recently is who issues the licences: since late 2024 it is mostly the states.
Table of contents
The 2024 Supreme Court Ruling
On 22 November 2024 the Supreme Court ruled that lotteries and games of chance are a matter for the states, not the National Assembly, except in the Federal Capital Territory. The National Lottery Act therefore applies only in Abuja, while each state regulates betting within its borders.
Who Licenses Bookmakers
| Regulator | Where | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) | Lagos | MSport, Betway, 22Bet, 1xBet |
| Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board | Oyo | Melbet, 1Win |
| National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) | Federal Capital Territory | SportyBet, Bet9ja |
| Other state boards | Anambra, Osun and more | BetKing also holds state licences |
Many bookmakers hold licences in more than one state, and the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria issues reciprocity permits, such as the one held by PariPesa.
How to Check a Licence
- Scroll to the footerLicensed bookmakers show the regulator and licence number at the bottom of the site.
- Note the numberFor example NLRC licence No. 0001014 (SportyBet) or LSLGA/OP/OSB/MS181223 (MSport).
- Check with the regulatorCompare it with the regulator's list of licensed operators.
Offshore bookmakers without a Nigerian licence are not illegal to visit, but no Nigerian regulator can help you if they refuse to pay.
Betting Laws FAQ
Is online betting legal in Nigeria?
Yes, for adults aged 18 and over with a licensed operator.
Who regulates betting in Nigeria now?
State regulators in each state, and the NLRC in the Federal Capital Territory.
Is it legal to bet with an offshore site?
It is a grey area. You are better protected with a bookmaker licensed in Nigeria.