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  • Leading Sports Betting Company for Nigerian Fans: A Review of the Best Platforms

    Leading Sports Betting Company for Nigerian Fans: A Review of the Best Platforms

    For a long time, Nigeria’s gambling industry mainly revolved around traditional methods like pool staking. However, as internet access became widespread, online sports betting in Nigeria began to experience a significant rise in popularity. 

    Today, the industry is populated by numerous local and international betting platforms competing for customers’ attention. And because there are so many options, the process of choosing where to bet must be done carefully. Finding a reliable and trusted platform is the only way to guarantee that you can enjoy great bonuses, competitive odds, and superior mobile compatibility. 

    This article provides a review of the best sports betting companies for Nigerian fans, including the top features these sites offer users.

    Important Criteria for Ranking the Best Sports Betting Sites in Nigeria 

    Here’s a list of the key factors we consider before choosing the leading betting companies in the country: 

    • Security and Licensing: To enjoy safe and fair betting, choose platforms with high-grade encryption protocols and a license from the National Lottery Regulatory Commission. 
    • Bonuses and Promotions: All the top companies for sports fans on the continent listed on BetZillion offer generous welcome bonuses and free bets with realistic wagering terms. It’s worth mentioning that BetZillion is a trusted online sports betting name that has been mentioned on several reputable media brands, including OutlookIndia, TheSouthAfrican, and Business-Review.
    • Betting Markets and Odds: To be considered a top betting platform, the operator must deliver a wide range of betting markets and very competitive odds. 
    • Mobile Experience: Mobile betting is a big deal in Nigeria, so leading sportsbooks should have highly-rated mobile apps and web browser versions. 
    • Payment Methods: The best betting site in Nigeria should support Nigerian-friendly banking options such as debit cards, bank transfers, and mobile money. 
    • Customer Support: Providing efficient customer support with 24/7 ability and multilingual capabilities is essential to guarantee a satisfactory customer experience. 

    Comparing Key Features of the Top Sports Betting Companies for Nigerian Fans 

    In this section, we review Nigeria’s top online sports betting companies and compare them based on their key features:

    Betway Nigeria

    Betway’s exceptional coverage of major European leagues makes it ideal for football betting, an incredibly popular market among Nigerian sports fans. 

    • Bonus – 50% Deposit Match up to N10,000. Minimum deposit of N5,000. 
    • Payment Methods – VISA, Paystack, FlutterWave, QuickTeller, Bank Transfer
    • Odds – 9.5/10
    • License – National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NRLC)
    • Mobile – Apps for iOS, Android, Huawei 

    Bet9ja

    Bet9ja is renowned among Nigerian bettors for offering competitive odds on a long list of local and international leagues.

    • Bonus – 170% Multiples Boost.
    • Payment Methods – VISA/MasterCard, Bank Transfer, Paystack, FlutterWave, Interswitch. 
    • Odds – 9.4/10
    • License – Lagos State Lotteries Board
    • Mobile – Mobile Site. 

    1xBet Nigeria

    1xBet ranks as a reliable international betting offering some of the most generous promotional offers in the Nigerian market. 

    • Bonus – 300% Match up to NGN 145,600
    • Payment Methods – VISA/MasterCard. 
    • Odds – 9.2/10
    • License – National Lottery Regulatory Commission
    • Mobile – Android, iOS. 

    NairaBet

    NairaBet’s betting product focuses on keeping things simple with a neat betting interface that has been rated highly by many users. 

    • Bonus – Up to N10,000 in free bets 
    • Payment Methods – Interswitch, Paystack, Flutterwave, Mobile Money, Bank Transfer 
    • Odds – 9.3/10
    • License – National Lottery Regulatory Commission
    • Mobile – Android. 

    Melbet Nigeria

    Melbet provides excellent coverage of international tennis and basketball markets with a comprehensive live betting section offering detailed statistics and betting tips. 

    • Bonus – 300% bonus up to 180,000 NGN 
    • Payment Methods – Debit Cards, Bank Transfer 
    • Odds – 9.2/10
    • License – National Lottery Regulatory Commission
    • Mobile – Android, iOS, Huawei

    Market Forecasts and Trends for Sports Betting in Nigeria

    Nigeria’s legal online sports betting market is projected to reach a market volume of over USD 400 million by 2029. This growth will likely be shaped by market trends such as customer preferences for mobile betting and the emergence of crypto sportsbooks. 

    The best way to take advantage of this growth is by betting exclusively on trustworthy and reliable platforms. Another expert-recommended tip is to register with multiple sites so you can access more betting options and shop prices for the best value. 

    While wagering, always remember to bet responsibly and treat gambling only as a recreational activity.

  • Maltina thrill fans with AY Live and Laff Mattaz

    AY, 2Baba, Gbenga Adeyinka, Small Doctor and others added glamour to the 2019 Easter weekend to residents of Lagos and Ibadan with AY Live and Laff Mattaz.

    AY Live and Laff Mattaz which witnessed the perfect blend of music and comedy held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos and the iconic Jogor Centre on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, respectively.

    For six years, Gbenga Adeyinka the 1st, the self-proclaimed Grand Comedian of the Federal Republic (GCFR) has been going around the South West, sharing happiness through his Laff Mattaz comedy show courtesy of premium malt drink, Maltina. AY Live on the other hand, has for over four years, been powered by the nation’s favourite malt drink, in a bid to foster its stance on sharing happiness.

    Fulfilling the promise to make everyone in attendance smile, laugh out loud and forget their worries for at least 24 hours were music and comedy superstars-DJ Jimmy Jatt, 2Baba, Ruggedy Baba, Chinko Ekun, Omobaba, Alariya, Terry G, the Small Doctor, Chi Young, Madiba of Comedy, Shete, Akpororo, Funny Bone, Helen Paul, Dr Smile and Peteru, who delivered great doses of music, humor and excitement to the people of Lagos and Ibadan.

    Laff Mattaz has been the biggest family event for the people of Ibadan over the last six years like AY Live in Lagos, with Maltina sharing happiness at the different shows.

    Speaking on this, the Portfolio Manager, Non-alcoholic drinks, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Ngozi Nkwoji, said:

    “We’re always excited to be a part of shows like AY Live and Gbenga Adeyinka’s Laff Mattaz, as they align with the brand’s commitment to sharing unending happy moments with  families and friends across Nigeria. We always look forward to being a part of these events as we have in recent years.”

  • Timaya excites fans at Legend’s ‘Real Deal’ concert in Enugu

    Revelers had a swell Valentine’s Day, as Enugu; otherwise called the Coal city came alive on Thursday, February 14, 2018 with the Legend’s flagship consumer engagement activity – Real Deal Experience.

    For the show. popular dancehall and Afro-pop singer, Timaya was on hand to thrill the crowd as he delivered an electrifying performance that left the audience in awe.

    The Port Harcourt born entertainer was at his best, switching up the tempo as he delivered many of his hit songs from “Ah blem blem” to “Dem Mama”. He also performed songs from his recently released album which kept the fans grooving all night long.

    The audience reception was a delight to watch, as all in attendance showed their love for the veteran singer, singing along to every word of his songs. Some members of the audience even coming on stage to dance with the self-acclaimed Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa.

    “It’s one thing to sing and entertain your audience, but when they take you on in a sing-along, picking up the song from the first line and singing it all to the end, you feel proud. Trust me, it’s a unique connection and such a humbling experience. I will never take this love for granted. Thank you to my fans, the beautiful people of Enugu and Legend Extra Stout for making this possible. I can’t wait to be back here for another Real Deal Experience,” said the award-winning artiste.

    The Real Deal Experience features Nigeria’s biggest music stars performing in various cities around the country. The show which was conceived by national premium stout brand, Legend, brings the country’s music artistes closer to their grassroots fans.

    Valentine’s day was well spent for consumers present at the event as Legend Extra Stout celebrated the season of love with special Valentine themed decorations and cupcakes. One of the major highlights were the interesting and engaging couple games which saw lucky couples go home with amazing prizes like refrigerators, generators and flat screen TVs.

    The biggest winners of the night were Mr and Mrs Mba Maduabuchi who won an all-expense paid dinner for two at the Octopus restaurant in Enugu courtesy of Legend Extra Stout.

    We are so excited we won, we did not even believe we we going to win, thank you so much to Legend Extra Stout for making this Valentine’s day a memorable one for me and my wife.  Said Mr Mba.

    Also for the first time at the Real Deal experience show; there was a Legend taste experience lounge which offered cocktail mixes. Consumers were able to mix their favorite stout brand with other amazing brands.

    From the games to the amazing performances and the lovely Valentine themed decorations, Enugu will never forget the Legend Real Deal Experience Valentine edition in a hurry.

    “As a consumer-focused brand, we go the extra mile to ensure our consumers are happy. That’s why we are always keen on creating multiple opportunities to ensure we delight them,” said Portfolio Manager – National Premium Brands – Sarah Agha.

    “The Real Deal Experience is unique because it allows us as a brand to get closer to our local market and better understand their needs whilst also rewarding our loyal customers, at the same time.” She added.

    Real Deal Experience has held in cities including Lagos, Ibadan, Onitsha, Umuahia, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Abakaliki, and Owerri, has featured some of Nigeria’s biggest entertainers including MI, Timaya, 9ice, Kcee, Oritsefemi, and Small Doctor among others.

  • Agbako: Fans, colleagues remember actor at 94th birthday

    Veteran Yoruba actor, Abudulsalam Sanyaolu, otherwise known as Charles Olumo or ‘Agbako’ was 94 years old on Tuesday.

    The actor had been off the screen for many years due to old age. Thus, when his birthday picture surfaced on the social media, many began to reminisce about his heydays as an actor.

    The thespian who started acting about 66 years ago, got the stage-name, ‘Agbako’, from one of the movies he featured in.

    One of the low moments for him was in 2013, when he was said to be sick and in coma. The actor who was also hospitalized in 2018 was said to be battling an undisclosed aliment. He had since not been going to movie locations, and has remained indoors, in his Abeokuta home, when not in hospital.

    In 2015, he was down with a stroke for six months. The same year, few days to his 90th birthday, he had an accident in his compound, wrecking his only car in the process.

  • Fans, celebrities mourn OAP Tosyn Bucknor

    The death of Inspiration FM OAP, Tosyn Bucknor, on Monday, has brought sadness to the Nigerian media and entertainment community, as fans, celebrities and politicians mourn her passing.

    The late Tosyn’s sister, Funke Bucknor Obruthe, while confirming the news on Instagram, disclosed that the OAP died due to complications from sickle cell anaemia, adding that she was found dead by her husband, Aurelien Boyer, when he arrived home on Monday night.

    The amiable media personality and motivational speaker, who had positive impact on people from different works of life, was born with sickle cell anaemia.

    “Hmmmmm…My heart is heavy…but in all things we give thanks to God,” Funke Bucknor Obruthe wrote.

    “My darling sister and besto Tosyn passed away last night due to complications from sickle cell. Love you.”

    Tosyn who died at 37, was quoted to have said during her lifetime, that she didn’t know she could make it beyond 21 years.

    “I am thankful because I honestly thought I would be dead by now. I didn’t think I’d live past 21 so even though I enjoyed school and life, I had no plans for after. Thankful that sickle cell is not, has never been, and will never be something to be ashamed of. Thankful for the phrase that changed my life- it is not how long you live that counts, but how well,” she reportedly said.

    Indeed, many have expressed how impactful the deceased life was.

    Comedian Seyi Law wrote: “I am not sure your energy was comparable. You were one of the kindest persons, I have ever seen. You were too adorable. You were the life of the party.

    “A voice that gave beauty to our radio. You were one of the best human beings, I have ever known. Tosin Bucknor, I celebrate your impacts and what you stood for.

    “Heaven has yet again robbed us of an angel. May your soul find peace and be beautiful in the bosom of our Lord. Rest on and well, my dearest sister,” he said.

    “Such horrible, horrible news,” said fellow OAP Toolz. “Don’t even know what to say. It feels so unreal saying #RIPTosyn. May God comfort and strengthen your husband and family during this sad period.”

    For Falz the Bad Guy, angels don’t die. He said on Instagram: “Angels don’t die, they ascend to heaven. I know you’re in a better place.”

    Banky W also took time out from his political aspiration to write on Instagram. “I always described Tosyn as “one of my favourite people on earth”, because it was true. I really, truly loved her. She was so full of life and incredible, positive energy…”

    ICYMI: Tosyn Bucknor, Inspiration FM presenter dies

    Peter Okoye who posted a picture of himself with the late OAP also wrote, “My dear Tosyn REST IN PEACE! We will surely miss you still can’t believe.”

    In the words of Entertainment Lawyer, Audu Maikori, “Another painful death. I’m not sure I have the right words. No one does. Rest in Peace my dear sister @tosynbucknor. You were one of the special ones. Let’s pray for her husband, family and her numerous fans.”

    Also, Peoples Democratic Party Governorship Candidate in Lagos, Jimi Agbaje, said, “I just received a sad news of the passage of Tosyn Bucknor due to complication of sickle cell. Tosyn fought a good fight.”

    Singer, Johnny Drille wrote, “I won’t be where i am but for Tosyn Bucknor. I am eternally grateful for the time she was with us. Pray for her family to find comfort this dark time.”

    Funke Akindele wrote: Sad! Rest in peace Tosyn Bucknor. You were such a pleasant and happy lady.”

    Tosyn, a graduate of law from the University of Lagos, was born with sickle cell anaemia. In November 2015, Bucknor and Aurélien Boyer had their traditional wedding surrounded by family and friends in Lagos. Five months later, they had their white wedding in France, Boyer’s home country.

    Tosyn started her OAP duties with Tee-A at Eko FM. She was also an intern at Cool FM where she hosted the ‘Fun Hour Show’ on Saturdays. Bucknor joined Top Radio after her National Youth Service in 2009 as the only female handling a morning show. She worked with Top Radio for seven years where she was known as ‘Area Mama’ before joining Inspiration FM.

    Tosyn Bucknor, who was active on social media always shared positive perceptive of life. She was nominated for several awards, including Future Awards, ELOY Awards, and Best of Nollywood, before her demise.

  • Fans mock Mo’ Salah statue

    A NEW sculpture of Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has provoked ridicule online for its unflattering depiction of the world-famous Egyptian footballer.

    The artwork, unveiled on Sunday at the World Youth Forum (WYF) being held in Sharm al-Sheikh, depicts Salah with his arms outstretched in his trademark goal celebration.

    The Egyptian footballer emerged as a phenomenon last year during his first season at Liverpool, breaking the club’s scoring record for a debut season and earning the Premier League’s Golden Boot award.

    He was also named BBC African footballer of the year, and his crucial 95th minute penalty for Egypt against Congo last year sent the North African team to the World Cup for the first time since 1990.

    Given his legendary world status, many fans were left bemused by the artistic tribute to the superstar.

    Featuring an oversized head and short and skinny legs, social media users said the sculpture looked more like 1970s singer Art Garfunkel or Marv the burglar from the film Home Alone.

    The statue also drew comparisons with a notoriously bad bust of Cristiano Ronaldo that was unveiled last year at Madeira airport.

  • Fans applaud Kemi Adetiba’s ‘King of Boys’

    KEMI Adetiba’s King of Boys, may be towing the success path of her debut movie, The Wedding Party, a box office hit.

    Some movie-lovers who feel impressed by the movie which is currently in cinema, took to the social media to shower accolades on the producer.

    A fan,Victor Iweanya, with handle @iweanyav, said, “Sola Sobowale is a mind-blowing actress. She bodied the role in King of Boys. @kemiadetiba The movie was extremely captivating and the actors were very impressive.

    “I fully intend to drive down to Lagos on my next free day (whenever that is) just so I can see King of Boys again. It’s so good,” @RinsolaAbiola tweeted.

    Another fan, @dopeBiniBoi tweet reads: King of boys is the best Naija movie I’ve watched in years… Great storytelling, acting, and videography. I’m beyond blown away.

    “King of Boys is a story that would look familiar but that is all the ‘expectancy’ you would get from this movie. What it would do after, would shock you, shake you, tickle you and make you marvel at the amazing performances its cast gives. It would also make you begin to appreciate Kemi Adetiba’s work as a Director who knows her craft,” said a movie expert.

    The film dabbles in scenes filled with intense dialogue, thought-provoking decisions by the main characters, and a portrayal of the lead protagonist in a way we are yet to see in Nigerian cinema.

    King of Boys follows the story of Eniola Salami (Sola Sobowale), a timid little girl, molested until she runs away from her parents’ toxic marriage, into the welcoming hands of a brothel owner.

    Eniola does not find life easy and ends up as a commercial sex worker. As a baby call girl, she is forced into a life of strife. She, however, uses her street-smarts to become a fearsome ruler of the Lagos underworld.

    The movie also marks the acting debut of veteran hip-hop artist, Reminisce, who puts in a performance that will shock many. He, alongside Ill Bliss, display impressive acting prowess to brilliantly complement the movie’s A-list cast.

    Notable actors in the movie include Sola Sobowale, Jide Kosoko, Paul Sambo, Adesua Etomi, Toni Tones, Sharon Ooja, Ademola Adedoyin, Lanre Hasan (Iya Awero), Osas Ighodaro, Funlola Aofiyebi, Sani Mu’azu, Paul Sambo and a host of others. KEMI Adetiba’s King of Boys, may be towing the success path of her debut movie, The Wedding Party, a box office hit.

    Some movie-lovers who feel impressed by the movie which is currently in cinema, took to the social media to shower accolades on the producer.

    A fan,Victor Iweanya, with handle @iweanyav, said, “Sola Sobowale is a mind-blowing actress. She bodied the role in King of Boys. @kemiadetiba The movie was extremely captivating and the actors were very impressive.

    “I fully intend to drive down to Lagos on my next free day (whenever that is) just so I can see King of Boys again. It’s so good,” @RinsolaAbiola tweeted.

    Another fan, @dopeBiniBoi tweet reads: King of boys is the best Naija movie I’ve watched in years… Great storytelling, acting, and videography. I’m beyond blown away.

    “King of Boys is a story that would look familiar but that is all the ‘expectancy’ you would get from this movie. What it would do after, would shock you, shake you, tickle you and make you marvel at the amazing performances its cast gives. It would also make you begin to appreciate Kemi Adetiba’s work as a Director who knows her craft,” said a movie expert.

    The film dabbles in scenes filled with intense dialogue, thought-provoking decisions by the main characters, and a portrayal of the lead protagonist in a way we are yet to see in Nigerian cinema.

    King of Boys follows the story of Eniola Salami (Sola Sobowale), a timid little girl, molested until she runs away from her parents’ toxic marriage, into the welcoming hands of a brothel owner.

    Eniola does not find life easy and ends up as a commercial sex worker. As a baby call girl, she is forced into a life of strife. She, however, uses her street-smarts to become a fearsome ruler of the Lagos underworld.

    The movie also marks the acting debut of veteran hip-hop artist, Reminisce, who puts in a performance that will shock many. He, alongside Ill Bliss, display impressive acting prowess to brilliantly complement the movie’s A-list cast.

    Notable actors in the movie include Sola Sobowale, Jide Kosoko, Paul Sambo, Adesua Etomi, Toni Tones, Sharon Ooja, Ademola Adedoyin, Lanre Hasan (Iya Awero), Osas Ighodaro, Funlola Aofiyebi, Sani Mu’azu, Paul Sambo and a host of others.

  • Fans criticise Beverly Osu over nun’s outfit

    With the release of her new photo shoots for the Taylor Live Magazine’s latest issue which she recently uploaded on her Instagram account, model/actress Beverly Osu, fans have criticised her.

    In one of the three pictures she posted, she dons on a black nun’s outfit and with smoke coming from her nostrils, she is seen holding a lit cigarette in one hand and a rosary in another hand.

    Osu captioned the picture as ‘Confessions. Taylor Live Magazine’s Latest Issue and a quick chat with the magazine, I decided to be Open and let a lot of bottled up secrets out.’

    And while some of her fans saw nothing wrong it, many condemned it.

    @theDamorela wrote, “Although people have abused scared materials a lot including Rosaries. But what Bevely Osu did in this shoot is outrageously disgusting. Smoking in a seductive nun attire with Rosary as hand? Rosary is meant 4 prayers, chrisitian wont come after u tho but leave u yo ut conscience.”

    @tweetoracle, “I am a Catholic and I dare say that this is the height of stupidity coming from Bevely Osu. It’s a slight on what the Nuns Habit and essentially Catholicism stand for. Why such blatant disrespect for something that religious. I mean why so stupid?”

    It will be recalled that this is not the first time, the model have been on the receiving end of critics. Osu also recently came out as Jasmine for Onobello.com; a creation of a black version of the cartoon characters.

  • Fans endorse Etinosa Idemudia’s The Washerman

    Multi-talented Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia is set for the release of her first movie ‘The Washerman.’

    Presently one of the most sought after young actresses in the industry, The Washerman, a romantic comedy movie slated for the cinemas nationwide form August 31, 2018 tells the story of true love existing in the strangest places. The movie is packed with top Nollywood actors such as Ik Ogbonna, Frank Donga, Mc Abbey, Bryan Okwara, Mofe Duncan, Judith Audu, Sound Sultan, Sexy Steel and Mercy Isoyip among others.

    Yet to hit the cinemas, the trailer of the movie which is currently on YouTube, is getting great reviews, which the actress is all excited about.

    The Edo State-born Computer Engineering graduate from Convenant University dumped engineering for movies and comedy. She holds a diploma course in acting at Royal Arts Academy and started her Nollywood journey in 2016.

  • Skales, others party with fans at Super Eagles Dome

    Football fans at Super Eagles Dome in Surulere, Lagos were treated to a carnival like football and music experience as pop stars Skales, Slimcase and top DJ Neptune entertained fans who came to watch the Super Eagles during their final Group D game against Argentina.

    Though Argentina won, the performing artistes – Skales and Slimcase – with thousands of fans celebrated and had fun, with hit songs blaring from powerful speakers as fans danced away into the night.

    Also in attendance at the Super Eagles Dome were Super Eagles legends like Ben Iroha, Ike Shorunmu, Uche Alozie Okechukwu and Tijani Babangida. The event was put together by premium beer brand Star Lager, the official beer of the Nigerian Super Eagles, in keeping with its promise to provide ‘football unusual.’

    Attendees also got to win branded items such as generators, freezers and television sets and so much more.

    The Super Eagles Dome has cutting-edge features such as a tunnel showcasing the glorious history of Super Eagles on LED, a VIP lounge, a mini studio and a multimedia technology that gives a 360-degree experience.