Nigeria’s Betting Industry Records Explosive Growth in Q1 2025

The Nigerian betting industry has witnessed unprecedented growth in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a dynamic shift in consumer engagement and technological adoption.

With sports betting at the forefront, the sector continues to drive significant revenue and employment opportunities despite regulatory and economic challenges.

Market expansion and revenue surge

According to industry projections, Nigeria’s gambling market is set to reach an estimated $3.63 billion in revenue by the end of 2025. This growth is fueled by an increasing number of participants, favourable mobile penetration rates, and expanding internet connectivity. With over 60 million Nigerians placing bets daily, the industry remains a key contributor to the nation’s digital economy. Recent surveys indicate that approximately 51.73 per cent of the adult population engaged in sports betting over the last 12 months, underscoring its deep-rooted influence on society.

The mobile betting revolution

As mobile technology continues to shape digital habits, Nigeria’s betting industry has seen a 92.8% adoption rate for online and mobile app-based betting platforms. With over 90% of internet users accessing the web via mobile devices, this trend is expected to grow even further. Major platforms such as Bet9ja and Betking, the country’s most recognised sportsbooks, have capitalised on this shift by improving user experience through intuitive mobile applications, secure payment gateways, and artificial intelligence-driven analytics to enhance user engagement.

Betting preferences and market trends

Football remains the dominant force in Nigeria’s betting landscape, accounting for 75% to 85% of all wagers. The English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and domestic Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) continue to drive massive engagement from bettors across the country. Additionally, emerging trends such as eSports betting and virtual sports wagering are gaining traction, especially among younger demographics who are more inclined to have digital gaming experiences.

Economic impact and future projections

The industry’s rapid expansion has sparked economic opportunities, with betting firms generating significant tax revenues for the government. Analysts predict that the market could surpass ₦800 billion in revenue by the end of the year, largely driven by increased technological innovations, mobile gaming enhancements, and evolving consumer preferences.

Despite its growth, the sector continues to face scrutiny over issues such as responsible gambling, addiction concerns, and the need for stricter regulatory frameworks. Industry stakeholders are calling for enhanced consumer protection policies and fair play measures to ensure sustainability and integrity.

Source: thisdaylive.com

About Post Author

Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.

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Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.