In Nigeria, gambling has evolved significantly from traditional forms like pool staking and Baba Ijebu to a thriving sports betting industry. Historically tied to European football leagues, pool staking was a common sight at motor parks and kiosks, where enthusiasts would wager as little as N50-N200 on matches.
Gradually with increased internet access came virtual betting processes-this transformation parallels global trends, with the sports betting market valued at $89.91 billion in 2023, projected to nearly double to $182.02 billion by 2030.
Despite economic challenges such as inflation, Nigeria’s sports betting sector has thrived, attracting millions, especially among the youthful demographic facing high unemployment rates.
Reports indicate that approximately 60 million Nigerians aged 18-40 actively engage in sports betting, driving an industry that generates an estimated annual revenue of N730 billion. This growth has not gone unnoticed by the federal government, which is considering regulatory measures like excise duties and VAT increases to manage the sector.
The National Lottery Act of 2005 established regulatory bodies like the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, aimed at ensuring fair operations despite challenges in enforcement. Issues such as inadequate age verification and breaches of advertising rules show regulatory gaps in the industry.
Despite these challenges, sports betting companies continue to thrive through effective business models and aggressive marketing strategies, leverage the creator influencer industry.
These efforts have contributed to Nigeria’s robust $2 billion gambling sector, with CEOs playing crucial roles in expanding audience reach and driving industry growth. Here are the CEOs leading sports betting companies and have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s $2 billion gambling empire through their extensive audience reach.
Fikayo Ogunfuye is a seasoned professional in the sports betting industry, currently serving as the Country Director for 22BET in Nigeria since June 2021. With over three years in this role, he has played a part in the company’s growth through partnerships, business strategy, and new business development.
Fikayo’s experience includes roles such as Chief Operations Officer (West Africa) at 22BET, where he managed product development and customer experience, and Country Manager at 22BET, focusing on marketing strategy and budget management. Prior to 22BET, he led marketing efforts at LuckyBet.NG and held various digital marketing roles at Laclic Services and Betty Bingo.
His career began at Jumia Group, where he worked in SEO, CRM, and content management. Fikayo also served as a Human Resource Officer at SIFAX Group.
He holds a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Management and Accounting from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and a Master of Science (MS) in Business Administration, Management, and Operations from ESTG University in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
22Bet is an online gambling platform that offers sports betting, casino games, and live dealer games. It was launched in 2017 and is owned and operated by Marikit Holdings Ltd, which is a company registered in Cyprus and a subsidiary of Orakum N.V. They are also the owners of Betwinner and a chain of casinos across the globe.
