News of the COVID-19 coronavirus has taken center stage around the world, specially with major North American and European leagues suspending their seasons. But this has had a perticularly harsh effect on the Nigerian sports betting market, as they are seeing record losses due to the pandemic.

Leadership, a Nigerian newspaper, reports owners of sports betting outlets and football viewing centers are reporting massive losses following the suspension of all major sporting activities across to the globe. A lack of European football has had the most dramatic impact of all, with all of the five major leagues having suspended operations until April.

Nigerian viewing centers and gambling establishments have remained open in Lagos, Abuja, and other regions. However, even with these facilities open, they are seeing a decreased number of visitors.

Bet9ja has not been immune from reduced volumes. Ibrahim Omofaderera, an agent for Bet9ja, discussed visiting viewing centers only to find them nearly empty. “I have a match viewing center that is now vacant. So, this is really affecting our business. Although there are virtual soccer games that can be played but they are only just computer programmed games and can’t be compared to staking bets on teams you have knowledge of and how they perform.”