… Unveils BlaqBonez as first brand ambassador
GinjaBet, a new entrant in the sports betting arena, has officially launched operations in Lagos, in a bold move to capitalise on Nigeria’s rapidly expanding gaming landscape.
The event, held at the Naval Dockyard on Victoria Island, coincided with the kickoff of the 2025/2026 European football season, highlighting the platform’s ambitions to intertwine entertainment and sports culture.
Nigeria is one of the biggest gaming countries on the continent. According to the 2025 Africa Games Industry Report, Nigeria emerged in 2022 as Africa’s fastest-growing gaming market, generating $185 million in gaming revenue.
This growth, according to the report, was led by mobile gaming powered by increasing smartphone access and a booming youth market.
These figures likely understate the actual size and potential of Nigeria’s broader betting and gaming sector, positioning GinjaBet at the forefront of a high-growth trajectory.
Speaking at the launch, Joe Richa, CEO of GinjaBet, explained that the decision to debut in Lagos was a result of its market strength.
He said: “When we first presented the opportunity to our board… they were extremely excited, but a bit concerned. This is our first experience on the continent. But we know Lagos, and we know Nigeria is the biggest or one of the biggest markets in Africa.
“We have a mission… to make betting fun, rewarding, and community-driven… Today is our big statement and promise to Nigerians that we are here to stay. Landing BlaqBonez as our striker completes our squad.”
Bashir Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), provided regulatory backing, praising the timing and brand name.
He said: “There is no city on this planet with the energy Lagos has… Lagos State has the best betting regulators on the continent. We regulate, protect, and promote responsible betting… Gaming taxes are used to take care of Lagosians. We have built fire stations, renovated schools… even constructed a secondary school… in Ikorodu.”
His remarks highlighted the socio-economic benefits of gaming revenues in Lagos and affirmed that GinjaBet would enjoy robust regulatory support, provided it champions responsible betting.
The LSLGA boss also emphasised that GinjaBet must implement features to guard against addictive behaviour, signalling close oversight.
BlaqBonez Joins as Brand Ambassador
Adding star appeal to the launch, GinjaBet tapped Emeka Akumefule, popularly known as BlaqBonez, as its brand ambassador.
Best known for his award-winning 2023 album “Emeka Must Shine”, the rapper’s vibrant persona and social media presence make him a fitting face for a platform aiming to be “fun, rewarding, and community-driven.”
“To be affiliated with a brand like GinjaBet is so cool. I like their colour, style, and designs. I am a cool person… I saw their vision. I saw the energy,” BlaqBonez said.
His confessed passion for football further aligns his image with the betting-focused audience GinjaBet seeks to captivate.
The event drew notable figures, including Gift Tuadibofa, the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Bookmakers, adding depth to the occasion’s industry resonance.
With its high-profile launch, GinjaBet’s entry may offer a fresh spark to Nigeria’s gaming industry, bridging mobile gaming’s rapid growth with betting’s mainstream appeal.
