The Cross River State government of Nigeria has introduced the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency (CRSLGA) Law 2025, giving its gaming regulator the authority to collaborate with technology companies, including Google, to remove illegal gambling content and block paid promotions from unlicensed operators.
During a media briefing on October 8 in Abuja, Director-General Michael Eja said this law closes the gap that allowed offshore betting sites to advertise freely through digital channels.
Enforcing compliance in digital gambling ads
The new framework empowers the CRSLGA to issue takedown requests, restrict digital gambling ads, and collaborate with Google for enforcement. Licensed betting companies in Cross River can now launch targeted Google Ads gambling campaigns and PPC casino ads, while unlicensed operators risk ad removal and legal action.
Eja said the reform creates a fairer environment for compliant businesses and protects consumers from deceptive platforms that exploit online advertising loopholes. By establishing clearer standards for paid digital gambling campaigns, the law strengthens shared accountability between regulators and technology companies.
Unified regulation across Nigerian states
Cross River has joined the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN), adopting a single-licence reciprocity model. Operators can now function across multiple states with one permit, while contributing to shared state revenue. From 2026, an 11 percent levy on gross gaming income and an annual fee of ₦100 million (around US $68,000) per operator will apply.
Strengthening oversight and public trust
To uphold transparency, CRSLGA will perform regular audits and publish advisories to help betting firms maintain compliance. Public lists of approved and banned operators are expected to follow, helping players identify legitimate gaming sites.
Cross River’s model reflects a growing trend in African markets where state regulators integrate technology oversight with advertising control, setting a new benchmark for responsible online gambling regulation.
