Nigeria’s sports betting industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from traditional forms like pool staking to a thriving, technology-driven ecosystem worth an estimated $2 billion. At the forefront of this dynamic landscape are the visionary CEOs and managing directors who have steered their companies to unprecedented success, catering to the growing appetite of the country’s youthful population for sports wagering.
Sheriff Olaniyan, the CEO of Surebet247, has been a trailblazer in the industry, leveraging his diverse experience in the gaming and entertainment sectors to propel his company’s growth. Surebet247, founded in 2011, has become a leading e-commerce business in the betting and gaming space, with a strong online and mobile presence.
Similarly, Sam Sadi, the CEO of LiveScore Group, has driven significant expansion for the company, with annual revenue surging from £10 million to over £80 million under his leadership. Sadi’s strategic vision and focus on user engagement have been instrumental in positioning LiveScoreBet as a prominent player in the market.
Anthony Werkman, the CEO of Betway Group, has continued to enhance the company’s offerings and expand its market presence. Betway’s app has garnered substantial user engagement, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing a seamless and engaging betting experience.
Damilare Alabi, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of NairaBET, has been a driving force behind the company’s growth and operational strategies. Her expertise in the gaming, real estate, and credit lending industries has been crucial in shaping NairaBET’s success over the past 14 years.
Femi Babalola, the General Manager of 1XBET Nigeria Limited, has overseen the expansion of the international sports betting giant in the Nigerian market. Under his leadership, 1XBET Nigeria has solidified its position as one of the largest bookmakers in the country, offering a diverse range of betting options and a user-friendly platform.
Gossy Ukanwoke, the CEO of BetKing and Chairman of Vend Capital, has not only led the growth of his own ventures but has also collaborated with African institutions and governments to design developmental policies aimed at empowering young people. BetKing’s partnership with MultiChoice and its job creation initiatives have further cemented its position in the industry.
Denise Coates, the CEO of Bet365, has established her company as one of the world’s largest online gambling companies, generating billions in revenue and facilitating billions in yearly bets. Bet365’s significant user engagement, with over 1 million downloads on the Google Play Store, is a testament to Coates’ visionary leadership.
Ayo Ojuroye, the CEO and co-founder of Bet9ja, has been instrumental in the company’s rapid growth, which has seen it become a significant player in the Nigerian sports betting industry. Bet9ja’s popularity, with over 1 million downloads on the Google Play Store, underscores Ojuroye’s strategic acumen.
Fikayo Ogunfuye, the Country Director of 22Bet in Nigeria, has played a crucial role in the company’s expansion, driving partnerships, business strategy, and new business development. His experience in the industry has been invaluable in positioning 22Bet as a formidable competitor in the Nigerian market.
Sudeep Ramnani, the Founder and CEO of SportyBet, has built a successful international sports betting and real-money gaming operator, delivering an omni-channel entertainment experience in regulated emerging markets. His investments in fintech and mobile payments reflect his commitment to fostering innovation and development in the region.
These captains of Nigeria’s sports betting industry have not only driven the growth of their respective companies but have also contributed to the overall development of the sector. Their strategic vision, innovative approaches, and unwavering commitment to providing engaging and accessible betting experiences have solidified Nigeria’s position as a hub for sports wagering in Africa.
