By Okechukwu Ebuka
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Gambling is enjoyed all over the world. With Nigeria having the largest economy in Africa, it was natural that more people would indulge in gambling. Over the years, this activity has risen in popularity and in particular, more people are gambling online now than ever before. But not a lot of people are aware of the laws on gambling in Nigeria and how they need to evolve in order to keep up with modern life.
Major Overhaul Call for Gambling Laws
When it comes to the law on gambling, Nigerians have to look to the Criminal Code Act and the Gaming Machines Act 1977. In particular, Chapter 22 of the Criminal Code Act states that some gambling is allowed in the country. Namely, these are supposed to be games that are based on skill rather than chance. They can be enjoyed at land casinos. This includes games like blackjack, slot machines and roulette. Thus, other games that rely on you having a good day will not be found at legal casinos in Nigeria. In addition, all venues must be licensed in order to legally let people gamble. It is interesting that there are only three licensed land casinos in Nigeria.
The other legislation, the Gaming Machines Act 1977, is also important to look at. This states that you cannot own and play on a gaming machine. If you do this, you can face up to one year behind bars.
However, it is important to note that neither of these pieces of legislation refer to online gambling and playing at a web-based Nigerian casino. Indeed, this is because both of the laws were brought into place before online gambling was popular or was even existed on the web. But this has left people confused on what the rules are when it comes to gambling online.
Online Gambling in Nigeria
Therefore, since the law does not mention online gambling in Nigeria, people have been left to make up their own mind. But this is not something to worry about and it is common for this to happen around the world. There are no laws to state that players cannot enjoy playing online.
Currently, the Nigerian Lottery Commission are regulating online gambling in Nigeria. This means that operators do have to obtain a license. This is a good thing and it can keep players safe. But the internet means that you can search for anything you like online. This means that players will have to be careful when it comes to unsafe gambling sites. Always ensure that you check reviews and take a look around the website before using it. Not only is this going to make sure that you do not get into trouble but it is also going to ensure not of your personal details are stolen in the process.
Perhaps in the future, new laws will come out or be updated so that people are able to understand their obligations when it comes to gambling online.
Written By Okechukwu Ebuka,
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