Stake has been added to the blocked list register of Lagos and banned from all 24 states within the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria, effective immediately.
The move comes despite what appeared to be a positive run of regulatory progress for Stake heading into 2026, with the operator securing licences in Denmark, Argentina, and Mexico.
Those licensing wins had given the impression that Stake was rebuilding its reputation with regulators after a difficult period involving its US arm and its relationship with rapper Drake.
The declaration from Nigerian authorities, however, makes clear that the company is still operating illegally in certain markets, undermining that narrative of recovery.
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority issued a statement urging financial institutions and media organisations to stop facilitating the operator’s activities in the country.
The LSLGA’s statement concluded: “Banks, payment service providers, fintech companies, media organisations and digital advertising platforms are also urged to conduct appropriate due diligence and cease facilitating unlicensed gaming activities.”
The regulator added that “LSLGA and FSGRN remain committed to protecting Nigerian consumers, safeguarding minors, preserving market integrity and ensuring that gaming operators comply fully with applicable State laws and tax obligations.”
The LSLGA recently implemented a 5% withholding tax on gaming winnings, signalling a broader push toward tighter oversight across the Nigerian gaming sector.
Prominent Nigerian operator Bet9ja was also shut down in Enugu following orders of the Enugu High Court, suggesting a wider regulatory crackdown is underway across the country.
Stake’s difficulties with regulators are not limited to Nigeria, as the operator has faced scrutiny in several major jurisdictions over recent years.
TGP Europe, the white label partner which held Stake’s UK licence, was forcibly removed from the jurisdiction in March last year following a series of marketing ploys that did not sit well with the Gambling Commission.
Despite this, Stake continues to advertise its products in the UK through a sleeve shirt sponsorship deal with Everton FC, having previously served as the club’s front of shirt sponsor for four seasons prior to 2026/27.
The operator is also under the watchful eye of Belgium’s gambling regulator, the Kansspelcommissie, after legendary Belgian footballer Eden Hazard became a brand ambassador for Stake.
