A new betting platform, GinjaBet, which recently began operations in Lagos, has engaged superstar rapper Emeka Akumefule, popularly known as BlaqBonez, as its brand ambassador.
The entrance of GinjaBet into the betting market is seen as a big boost for the gaming industry.
The official launch of GinjaBet took place at Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos at the weekend. It coincided with the kickoff of the 2025/2026 European football season.
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Executive Officer of GinjaBet, Joe Richa, explained that the decision to debut in Lagos was as a result of its market strength.
“When we first presented the opportunity to our board members to invest in Nigeria, they were extremely excited, but a bit concerned. This is our first experience on the continent. But we know Lagos, and we know Nigeria is the biggest or one of the biggest markets in Africa,” he said. “We have a mission that we have worked on for over nine months, and the mission is to make betting fun, rewarding, and community-driven. I want to encourage everyone to bet responsibly and enjoy the experience.”
Though Richa acknowledged the challenges of entering the betting market in Africa, he stressed GingaBet would make a big difference because their mission is to offer community-driven betting services.
“Today is our big statement and promise to Nigerians that we are here to stay. Landing BlaqBonez as our striker completes our squad. We are here to score, to win, and to offer the best entertainment experience for everyone in Nigeria. So I invite you all to responsible betting at Ginjabet.com. ”
Head of Marketing, GingaBet, George Mbang, said the outfit is in Nigeria with a different kind of betting.
Also at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), Bashir Are, described Lagos as the ideal market for GingaBet’s operation in Africa.
Are, who is a trustee of the International Association of Gaming Regulators, assured GinjaBet of Lagos State regulatory support.
“There is no city on this planet with the energy Lagos has. You chose the right brand name at the right time. Lagos State has the best betting regulators on the continent. We regulate, protect, and promote responsible betting. Your business is shielded at the local, state, and federal levels,” he stated.
Speaking further, Are spoke on the impact of gaming taxes in Lagos, saying: “Gaming taxes are used to take care of Lagosians. We have built fire stations, renovated schools, and even constructed a secondary school for a community in Ikorodu that had none until 2023.”
The LSLGA noted that it will ensure that GinjaBet promotes responsible betting and includes features to prevent addiction.
The presence of the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Bookmakers, Gift Tuadibofa, also added more colour to the event.
The highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of Blaqbonez as GingaBet’s brand ambassador.
Blaqbonez, a Chocolate City signee, is best known for his award-winning third studio rap-dominated album, ‘Emeka Must Shine’, released in 2023.
BlaqBonez said his partnership with GingaBet reflects his passion for sports and his image as an artiste.
“To be affiliated with a brand like GinjaBet is so cool. I like their colour, style, and designs. I like the energy. I am a cool person. When they reached out, I saw their vision. I saw the energy that they were going with. I appreciate this because it’s amazing.”
Speaking further, BlaqBonez stated that his vibrant social media presence and his growing reputation as a football enthusiast played a key role in attracting the brand to him.
“The way I have always carried myself and my sport life attracted them to me. In more recent times, I have become some sort of football addict, and that has always been part of my life as an artiste,” BlaqBonez stated.
