Obtaining a Gambling License in Nigeria

Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and has earned the status of a promising market for the entertainment and gambling industry on the continent. High rates of digitalization, widespread mobile connectivity, and the popularity of online services create optimal conditions for the development of a regulated betting and casino market.

Licensing and compliance monitoring are carried out by both national and local authorities. The primary regulator is the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), while individual regions have the right to introduce additional rules regarding land-based casinos and online gaming.

Obtaining a license here means that a company is legally conducting business and safeguarding users’ rights.

Why a gambling license is needed in Nigeria

Business legality. Operating without a license automatically makes the operator’s activities illegal, leading to fines and even criminal prosecution.
Player protection and compliance with standards. A license guarantees that the operator complies with requirements for player data protection, prevention of gambling addiction, anti-money laundering (AML), and counter-terrorist financing (CFT). This helps build trustful relationships with the company.
Government support and market access. Regulators provide access to industry data, assist in dispute resolution, and offer platforms for advertising services.
Legitimacy. A license allows operators to openly attract funding, enter into partnerships, and participate in government tenders.

Who requires a gambling license in Nigeria:

Sports betting operators;

Lottery companies;

Online casinos and gaming platforms;

Mobile and interactive gaming operators;

Offshore and international operators;

Organizers of promotional campaigns;

Requirements for obtaining a gambling license in Nigeria

Before submitting an application, a company must register a legal entity in Nigeria. Foreign enterprises are also required to hold a valid license from an international regulator recognized by the NLRC.

Our specialists will help you establish a company in Nigeria and prepare the license application. Consultations are available by phone or via our website.

Required documents:

Company incorporation documents.
Business plan and description of services.
Financial statements confirming solvency.
Technical documentation, including software architecture and testing certificates from recognized laboratories (e.g., GLI or iTech Labs).
Policies on player data protection, AML, and CFT compliance.

Operators are required to adhere to fair play principles, ensure the security of participants’ personal data, restrict access for minors, and implement features such as self-exclusion and deposit limits. In addition, it is important to adopt policies that promote responsible gambling practices.

License fees

License fee depends on type of gambling activity:

Sports Betting License

Application fee: EUR 2,000 (2 million NGN)
License fee: EUR 48,700 (75 million NGN)
Required share capital: EUR 17,850 (30 million NGN)
Validity: 5 years
Members of the Nigerian Bookmakers Association receive a 50% discount

Lottery License

Application fee: EUR 2,000 (2 million NGN)
License fee: EUR 100,379 (100 million NGN)
Required share capital: EUR 100,379 (100 million NGN)
Validity: 10 years

Online Casino License

Application fee: EUR 2,000 (2 million NGN)
License fee 9,200 EUR (15.5 million NGN)

Our Services

Law&Trust International specializes in providing legal and consulting support for businesses in the gambling sector, including assistance in obtaining a license in Nigeria. Cooperation with professional lawyers significantly simplifies the document preparation process, speeds up regulatory review, and minimizes the risk of rejection.

We provide:

Consultation and analysis of the business model.
Assistance with company registration (our specialists handle all stages of establishing a legal entity).
Preparation and submission of documents to the NLRC.
Legal support during Due Diligence.

F.A.Q.

How much does the license cost?

The cost of a standard license for online operators with a foreign license is USD 100,000 per year. The operator is also required to pay a 4.5% tax on player deposits.

How long is the license valid?

The license is usually issued for 5 years, with the possibility of renewal subject to compliance with all requirements.

What are the penalties for operating without a license?

Operating without a license is illegal and entails heavy fines, confiscation of equipment, and possible criminal prosecution of company executives.

How long does the licensing process take?

The process typically takes 3 to 6 months, provided that the full set of documents is submitted and the NLRC’s review is successful.

Our clients