Lagos was aglow on Saturday, August 16, 2025, as GinjaBet, Nigeria’s newest gaming and sportsbook platform, officially launched operations with a vibrant event themed “Ginja Don Land” at the Admiralty Event Center, Naval Dockyard, Ahmadu Bello Way.
The high-energy ceremony blended Nigeria’s passion for football with its dynamic music culture and featured the unveiling of award-winning rapper Blaqbonez as GinjaBet’s first-ever brand ambassador — a move the company described as a statement of its bold, youthful, and authentic brand identity.
“I’m excited to be part of this. GinjaBet represents energy and authenticity, and I can’t wait for us to make this partnership count,” Blaqbonez said at the unveiling.
Deivering the keynote address, Joe Richa, Co-Founder and CEO of GinjaBet, said the platform’s entry into Nigeria marked the beginning of a new era in the gaming sector.
“This isn’t just a launch — it’s the start of a new betting lifestyle for Nigerians. Blaqbonez embodies the energy, boldness, and authenticity we stand for. GinjaBet is built for Nigeria, powered by world-class tech. We’re not just here to compete — we’re here to lead and to connect,” Richa declared.
From a regulatory standpoint, Bashir Abiola-Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries Board, welcomed GinjaBet into the state’s thriving gaming industry and pledged continued collaboration. He emphasized that revenues from gaming taxes are already being invested in schools and healthcare facilities across Lagos, underlining the sector’s contribution to public development.
Also in attendance were George Mbam, Head of Market at GinjaBet; Chief Tosan, Managing Partner at Victoria Chambers and Legal Secretary to GinjaBet; and Mrs. Gift (Tamunopreye) Tuadibofa of the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers, all of whom expressed confidence in the platform’s ability to add value to the market.
Licensed by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority and powered by UpGaming’s iGaming infrastructure, GinjaBet promises next-generation sportsbook features, competitive odds, seamless wallet transactions, exclusive Ginja Games, and a player-focused ecosystem designed specifically for Nigerians.
For Blaqbonez, the partnership was a natural fit. Known for his wit, confidence, and cultural relevance, the rapper said the collaboration merges his passion for football and gaming while giving GinjaBet instant cultural credibility among Nigeria’s youth.
The night closed with electrifying live performances, a football-inspired stage design, and a pulsating atmosphere that many attendees described as a seamless fusion of sports, entertainment, and lifestyle.
With its official debut, GinjaBet has positioned itself not just as a betting platform, but as a lifestyle brand aiming to redefine the gaming experience for Nigerians.