New Zealand Vs. Nigeria: Online Gambling Market Comparison

In different jurisdictions, the gambling market is regulated by different rules that have taken shape due to the cultural and traditional features of the region, access to technology, and so on. 

Looking at both regions, one can notice a commonality that is characterised by the fact that both New Zealand and Nigeria have relatively recently become places where the gambling industry has appeared on the agenda and caused lively debates. 

At the same time, there are significant differences, which lie in the real status of the online gambling market, the features of regulation, issuance of licences, audience coverage, and so on.

NZ Online Gambling Market

Currently, you can see that the gambling market in New Zealand is quite tightly regulated. Some of the top casinos online that are lucky enough to receive a licence according to the Gambling Act of 2003 can continue their activities and periodically renew their licences and approving status. 

At the same time, there is no place for new native casinos in the region in the gambling market. As for casinos operated under licences issued overseas, they can enter the market.

Legal Status

At the time of writing, gambling in New Zealand is regulated by the Gambling Act of 2003. According to this document, you can join in scratch card betting and lotteries if you are 18 or older. Other card and table games are available for everyone who has reached 20 years. There is a fixed number of local casino providers which regularly renew their status and a wide range of gaming platforms that are operated overseas. 

Popular Gambling Games

Like in most other countries, online pokies are the most popular games among Kiwi players. Such games do not require special strategy or skills and give the same opportunities to win for newcomers as well as experienced users, thanks to various promotions. As for other casino entertainments, Kiwi gamblers prefer poker, roulette, and various types of lotteries.

Variety of Operators

Currently, there is a limited number of local casino operators in New Zealand. According to the law that is currently in force, their number cannot be increased. At the same time, the New Zealand market is actively accepting reputable foreign casino operators who have licences issued by one of the following regulators:

• The Malta Gambling Authority Or MGA;
• The Gibraltar Betting And Gambling Association Or GBGA;
• The Isle Of Man Gaming Commission;
• Alderney Gambling Control Commission, and others.

At the same time, it is possible that the legislative base will be revised soon. It will enable native operators to enter the market more actively.

The Future

Undoubtedly, in the future, gambling in New Zealand will scale. Despite the rather harsh regulation, the demand for Kiwi players is constantly growing, and it can be covered either by foreign providers or by local ones after changes are made to the legal framework.

Nigerian Online Gambling Market

Although for a long time, gambling was considered an antisocial pastime, attitudes towards them are gradually changing. However, at the moment, only land-based casinos can operate in Nigeria. As for online gaming platforms, the legislative framework that could regulate them is ready but has not yet been implemented by the government.

Legal Status

As it was mentioned, online gambling is officially illegal in Nigeria. At present, only those persons who have reached the age of 18 can use gambling services. The gambling industry is under the control of The National Lottery Regulatory Commission. 

The legislation distinguishes between games based on skill (which are considered legal) and games based on chance (which are frowned upon and illegal). Currently, the law does not contain specific provisions governing virtual or online gaming.

Popular Gambling Games

According to statistics, the most popular casino entertainments in Nigeria are slots. Also, there are many roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat fans among both beginners and experienced gamblers. 

Variety of Operators

There are only a few native online operators in Nigeria that offer limited services, mainly in the form of access to the national lottery. If you are searching for entertainment or want to try your luck on slots, poker, blackjack, baccarat, and other titles, then you can register with overseas casino operators like 22bet, Betway, SportPesa, and others.

The Future

Currently, Nigerian players are waiting for changes in legislation that could open the gambling industry to a larger number of casinos and allow local operators to enter the market. However, given the fact that these amendments cause severe debates, it is difficult to say when they will be implemented.

The Conclusion

Both Nigerian and New Zealand gambling markets are relatively new but have the potential for development. Despite heavy regulation in both jurisdictions, New Zealand is still slightly more favourable for new operators to enter the market and also for the work of local casinos. 

As for Nigeria, their gamblers are waiting for amendments to the legislation that could become a real revolution in the industry.