iBetAfrica Regulatory Update
Nigeria’s gaming landscape is entering a decisive moment as the Central Gaming Bill 2025 triggers intense debate over jurisdiction, regulatory structure, and the balance of power between federal and state authorities. The Bill, recently passed by the Nigerian Senate and awaiting Presidential assent, seeks to repeal the National Lottery Act (2005) and its 2017 amendment, replacing them with a single central regulatory framework for all forms of gaming – including online, remote, and cross-border operations.
If signed into law, the Bill would reshape the industry, unify regulation under federal control, expand the scope of oversight, and position gaming revenue as a national asset. However, it has ignited significant constitutional resistance from key industry stakeholders.
What the Federal Government Intends
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, confirming the passage, stated that the objective is to modernize and consolidate regulation to reflect emerging realities in digital gaming:
“…to enact the Central Gaming Bill to regulate the operation and business of all forms of online and remote gaming across the geographical boundaries of the federation and beyond the borders of Nigeria… provide for gaming in the Federal Capital Territory and enhance revenue generation for the federation…”
In essence, the Bill positions the Federal Government as the primary gaming regulator, with ambitions to:
✔ centralize licensing frameworks
✔ control cross-border and online gaming operations
✔ improve compliance and taxation
✔ drive federal revenue generation
✔ standardize regulation across states
This centralization approach mirrors regulatory models in developed markets — but with constitutional complexities in a federal structure like Nigeria.
Strong Pushback from States & Regulators
Multiple states and regulatory groups have raised objections, arguing that gaming falls within state jurisdiction, particularly where operations occur physically within their territories.
Key opponents include:
🔺 Lagos State Government – via Attorney-General Lawal Pedro (SAN), who described the bill as “a voyage of unconstitutionality.”
🔺 Enugu State Gaming Commission
🔺 Federation of State Gaming Regulators in Nigeria (FSGRN)
🔺 Civil groups including the Coalition for Good Governance (CGG), branding the bill “a voyage of legislative rascality and lawlessness.”
Their argument is that the Bill:
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may undermine existing state gaming laws
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risks revenue conflicts between federal and state coffers
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expands federal powers beyond what the constitution permits
Lagos, being Nigeria’s most active gaming market, stands at the center of this pushback — and its position could shape the direction of the debate.
Industry Implications if Passed
If assented to, the Central Gaming Bill could lead to:
📌 a single federal licensing window
📌 harmonized compliance frameworks
📌 potential restructuring of state commissions
📌 increased cost & taxation for operators
📌 clearer rules for online/cross-border operations
📌 possible legal challenge from states
Operators may face a transition period, including dual-compliance, pending clarification on jurisdictional overlap.
Where This Leaves the Industry Now
Nigeria stands at a regulatory crossroads — harmonization vs autonomy.
The decision could redefine the structure of the gaming economy for years to come.
As we await President Tinubu’s assent or further debate, stakeholders — operators, investors, regulators, legal experts, and civil groups — are watching closely.
iBetAfrica will continue tracking the situation
At iBetAfrica, our duty is to keep the ecosystem informed with credible updates on legislative reforms, policy shifts, partnerships, and market developments shaping Africa’s iGaming future.
Stay tuned as we monitor the next phase of this legislative journey.
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