The legal landscape for online casinos in Nigeria operates under a complex regulatory framework that has undergone significant changes in recent years. Unlike traditional land-based casinos and sports betting which are legally permitted, online casinos exist in a regulatory gray area (1). The absence of specific legislation addressing online casino operations means that while some forms of gambling are regulated and licensed, dedicated online casinos face regulatory uncertainties.
Following a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2024, Nigeria's gambling regulatory authority has been fundamentally restructured. The ruling nullified the National Lottery Act and dissolved the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, transferring exclusive regulatory power to individual state governments (2). This shift means that gambling regulations, including those potentially affecting online casinos, now vary from state to state rather than being governed by a single federal framework.
"The ruling shifted exclusive regulatory authority to state governments, requiring operators to adapt to a decentralised system where each state maintains its own licensing framework."
Currently, states like Lagos have established their own gaming authorities, such as the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), which regulate lottery and gaming activities within their jurisdiction (1). However, most states have not yet developed comprehensive frameworks specifically for online casino licensing and operations. This creates a fragmented regulatory environment where online casino legality depends heavily on the specific state's laws and enforcement policies. Players should exercise caution and verify the licensing status of any online casino platform before participating.
Source:
https://lslga.org/
https://www.templars-law.com/knowledge-centre/nullification-of-the-national-lottery-act-and-the-national-lottery-regulation-commission-nlrc-by-the-supreme-court-of-nigeria/
Last updated: 18-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
