Online bingo is technically illegal in Niger outside state-licensed venues, though enforcement remains sporadic and informal (1). The government maintains a strict monopoly on all legal gambling activities through LONANI (National Lottery of Niger), which exclusively operates lotteries and pari-mutual betting with France's PMU (1). While private operators cannot obtain licenses under the current system, residents can access foreign betting platforms without facing serious legal penalties, creating a de facto grey area where online bingo operates outside legal frameworks despite technical prohibition.
Players in Niger accessing offshore online bingo platforms operate without consumer protections, responsible gambling safeguards, or official regulatory oversight (2). The Ministry of Finance supervises gambling under very weak enforcement mechanisms, with no dedicated gambling commission to monitor fairness or compliance standards (1). Religious factors significantly influence gambling policy, as approximately 80 percent of Niger's population practices Islam, which prohibits gambling activities, though no explicit law bans participation (2). The government has not prioritized gambling regulation among critical development issues including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
"Although the official attitude of the government is unknown, it is assumed that gambling outside licensed venues is illegal. This ban probably encompasses internet activities as well, but there are no clarifications on the matter. Just like in other corners of the world with non-regulated online gambling, people from Niger visit foreign betting platforms and play the desired games."
Niger's minimal gambling market and severe resource constraints mean online bingo regulation remains unlikely in the foreseeable future (1). Players from Niger must rely on self-imposed responsible gambling measures when accessing international platforms, including selecting operators licensed by reputable authorities in Malta, Gibraltar, the United Kingdom, or Sweden (2). Until Niger establishes a dedicated regulatory authority and licensing framework for online gambling, online bingo remains technically prohibited yet practically accessible, leaving players vulnerable to fraud while the state captures no tax revenue from offshore gambling activities.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-niger/
https://lcb.org/restrictions/niger
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
