NIGERIA RANKED NO.1 AS TOP BETTING NATION IN AFRICA

Nigeria stands at the forefront of Africa's booming sports betting landscape, boasting an astounding 168 million estimated bettors. This makes it the undisputed leader in volume across the continent, a testament to its massive population and a rapidly expanding digital infrastructure.

The African betting sector is a magnet for investors, regulators, and researchers alike, and it's easy to see why. Millions are placing bets through mobile apps, websites, and traditional shops. This phenomenal growth is being propelled by a perfect storm of factors: Africa's dynamic young population, ever-increasing internet access, and the widespread embrace of smartphones.

While Nigeria leads in sheer numbers, the story of African sports betting is rich and varied. GeoPoll's April 2025 Betting in Africa survey, coupled with mid-year population data from Worldometer, reveals fascinating insights into active bettors across the continent. Together, the top six African countries alone account for over 440 million bettors, underscoring the immense scale of this economy.

Beyond Nigeria, the betting intensity shifts. Southern Africa, particularly South Africa, showcases a deeply ingrained betting culture, with participation rates nearing saturation. Here, a strong regulatory framework and established habits ensure high engagement, even with a smaller population base.

Meanwhile, East African nations like Kenya and Uganda are characterized by some of the highest participation rates on the continent. In these regions, mobile technology is a game-changer, with user-friendly USSD and app-based platforms providing widespread access to betting, even in lower-income areas.

The African sports betting market is a vibrant and evolving phenomenon, driven by digital accessibility and a passion for sports, with Nigeria firmly holding its position as a key player.

Posted on: Wed May 28 2025 Back to posts