Key Moments:
- Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency (CRSLGA) has enacted new powers to penalize unlicensed online betting platforms and engage global tech partners in compliance efforts.
- The latest law, signed by Governor Bassey Otu, allows collaboration with Google for content removal and ad restrictions starting October 15.
- The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) will introduce an 11% gross gaming income tax and a standard ₦100 million annual operator fee in 2026, waiving license charges for the current year.
New Law Strengthens Enforcement of Online Gaming Regulation
Cross River State is heightening its oversight of the betting industry with the introduction of the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law 2025. This regulation provides CRSLGA with the authority to take legal action against unlicensed online lottery and sports betting operators and to partner directly with technology firms to block and eliminate unauthorized platforms within the jurisdiction.
Michael Eja, Director-General of CRSLGA, addressed the significance of these changes during a briefing in Abuja on October 8. He emphasized that, previously, the lack of clear legal authority limited their ability to pursue online entities not physically located within Cross River. Following the passage of the new law, Eja said:
“The main issue was enforcement against online operators lacking physical presence in the state. That changed with the passage of the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law 2025, signed by Governor Bassey Otu earlier this year.”
The partnership with Google is set to formally commence on October 15, granting CRSLGA the ability to initiate content takedown requests, restrict advertising for non-compliant platforms, and obtain legal support to counteract illicit operators. Licensed businesses will be able to advertise lawfully within the state while unauthorized sites face systematic removal in collaboration with Google.
Market Impact and Operator Advantages
By implementing these measures, the CRSLGA intends to provide licensed operators with a more level playing field and to shield consumers from illegitimate platforms. Eja described this regulatory transition as beneficial for reputable local operators, stating:
“Players in Calabar and beyond deserve platforms that pay out reliably and follow rules. This setup lets compliant operators reach customers legally, while we handle the rest.”
The enhanced legal tools and cooperation with technology firms will streamline ad monitoring and enforcement, making the regulatory process more transparent and automated. These steps reflect an emerging emphasis on digital oversight within Nigeria’s betting market.
National Coordination and Licensing Reform
In May 2025, CRSLGA became a member of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN), representing 25 participating states. The collaboration establishes a reciprocity system permitting operators with a license from one member state to function in all others. Eja, instrumental in this agreement, highlighted that the shared licensing framework is set to introduce an 11% tax on gross gaming income and a uniform annual license fee of ₦100 million, beginning in 2026.
Licensing fees will be waived during the current fiscal year to promote early compliance. Eja commented:
“Harmonising licences cuts costs for companies and boosts our internal revenue without raising taxes on residents. It funds local needs like schools and roads, real benefits for communities.”
This regulatory approach supports standardization and revenue sharing across Nigeria’s regulated states.
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Gross Gaming Income Tax | 11% |
| Annual Operator Fee | ₦100 million (from 2026) |
| License Fee Waiver | Applies during current fiscal year only |
Compliance, Audits, and Transparency Measures
CRSLGA plans to introduce regular audits, compliance reviews, and public advisories for all market participants as part of the transition to the updated legal structure. The agency will publish comprehensive lists of both licensed and unlicensed operators, aiding consumer awareness and protecting trustworthy companies. Ongoing monitoring is designed to reinforce trust between operators and regulators and create a more predictable environment for all stakeholders.
Implications for Nigeria’s Wider Betting Sector
Cross River’s digital-focused compliance strategy marks a notable advancement in the drive to control unlicensed gaming operations. By engaging directly with major tech platforms, the state has set an example for data-driven enforcement and increased coordination with global technology companies. As described in ‘Nigeria state regulators stand firm against central gaming bill 2025’, this approach also underscores ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over regulatory control.
With this model gaining momentum, the industry will be closely watching to see if other Nigerian states implement similar frameworks to reinforce market protection and regulatory standards.
Future Prospects: Sustainable Market Growth
The CRSLGA’s recent undertakings are intended to encourage responsible industry growth while safeguarding the public interest. Clearer rules and decisive enforcement may spur further investment and ensure stronger consumer protection. Looking ahead, the agency will concentrate on improving data collection, offering public education, and advancing engagement with market operators. The overall objective is to foster a regulated environment in which fair competition benefits both operators and communities.
- Author
Daniel Williams
