Nigeria applauds president's rejection of the Central Gaming Bill
Nigeria’s gaming and online gaming community has welcomed the scrapping of the Central Gaming Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Industry players have termed the action a major victory for the well-being of the country’s constitutional system and the country’s gaming regulation framework.
The decision is already being described as a catalyst for growth in 2026. This verdict will, in turn, give stakeholders a clear understanding of how they will be regulated.
Bill rejected at APC meeting
Tinubu did not sign the Central Gaming Bill during a recent APC National Executive Committee Meeting. The Central Gaming Bill aimed to centralise the control of gaming, lotteries, and internet gaming in Nigeria through a federal control agency. Tinubu, however, stated during the APC National Executive Committee Meeting, “We cannot surrender our sovereignty to anyone.” This statement follows a Supreme Court decision in 2024 concerning gaming jurisdiction.
Experts say the matter has now rendered certainty for the operators concerning the digital gaming sector in Nigeria. They say it offers a clear regulatory framework.
iBet Africa calls decision a turning point
The industry platform iBet Africa said that Tinubu’s move was a transformation in the iGaming industry. The organisation said, “A transformation is now set to affect how investors, gamers, and suppliers deal with Nigeria and enter into 2026. Gaming and lottery regulation fall under the sphere of each state. Any player contemplating investing in Nigeria’s iGaming industry needs to understand what now has to happen.”
The success, as pointed out by iBet Africa, will have to come from state-level participation. Operators will have to be closely aligned in their activities with the authorities in their jurisdictions. Additionally, operators will have to develop local networks. Operational compliance will be mandatory in the new framework.
Legal experts back state authority
Moreover, legal opposition to its passage predates Tinubu’s action. Various authorities pointed out that it overstepped federal boundaries. Obinna Akpuchukwu, senior partner at Allen & Marylebone, also expressed dissatisfaction over its underpinnings.
He said: “The Central Gaming Bill, if passed, would be unconstitutional. The proponents’ claim that it regulates online or remote gaming beyond the National Lottery Act is, with respect, unfounded. The nullified National Lottery Act already covers land-based, online, and remote gaming, and the Supreme Court made no distinction between them.”
Another body that opposed the bill was the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria. They referred to provisions in the Constitution and the ruling by the Supreme Court in 2024.
Civil society and regulatory resistance
Organisations of civil society have also joined the condemnation of the proposed law. The Coalition for Good Governance criticised the proposal fiercely. The body referred to the initiative as a “voyage of legislative rascality, recklessness and lawlessness.” All these voices reinforced calls advocating for regulation by the state. Tinubu’s rejection of the proposed law has politically resolved the issue.
Consequences for operators and investors
The state administration has now established itself as the definitive regulator. The operators will be required to interact with the concerned departments of the state for licensing and submitting reports. The compliance needs will differ by country. Parties in the industry should seek country expertise.
Analysts foresee innovation on a state level in 2026. Forward-thinking states could establish simplified licensing and promotional systems. These measures would be capable of attracting both local and foreign investments. However, it must be harmonious with state laws. This is because failure to comply with the requirements could result in penalties.
Market outlook beyond the debate
Although political news dominated headlines, the market stands on the verge of growth. The states are to improve supervision and cooperation. Guidelines will allow for a compliant and favourable business climate. Industry leaders are of the view that Tinubu’s announcement has revived confidence in the country.
Africa’s iGaming force is rising, and Cape Town’s shaping the continent’s future. From 03–05 March 2026, SiGMA Africa will bring together 3,000 delegates, 780 operators, and 150+ speakers to the table. This isn’t hype. It’s happening. Don’t sleep on it.
