Stake Declared Illegal and Blocked Across 24 Nigeria States

Nigeria’s gaming regulators have classified casino operator Stake as illegal and ordered the platform to be blocked across 24 states.

The action was taken on the grounds that Stake does not hold a Nigerian gaming licence and has outstanding tax obligations in the country.

The ban was announced by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), which added Stake to its list of blocked operators in Lagos. The restriction was then extended across all 24 states represented by the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN).

Nigeria is the second-largest betting market in Africa after South Africa, with a Competitive Earnings Baseline (CEB) of $789 million.

The LSLGA said:

“LSLGA and FSGRN remain committed to protecting Nigerian consumers, safeguarding minors, preserving market integrity and ensuring that gaming operators comply fully with applicable State laws and tax obligations.”

The LSLGA has also recently introduced a 5% tax on gambling winnings. The latest action against Stake comes as state-level regulators strengthen oversight of online gaming licences and operator compliance.