Welcome to the next installment of iGaming Kati Yetu, where we share the journeys and insights of influential figures in the iGaming industry. Today, we feature Dr. Charles Akhenamen, a pioneer in Nigeria’s iGaming sector with nearly two decades of experience shaping lottery, sports betting, and digital gaming across West Africa. Let’s explore his story and expert advice.
Dr. Charles Akhenamen’s journey in iGaming
Dr. Charles’s entry into iGaming was unplanned. Initially working in logistics handling imports, he applied for a role at Nigeria’s largest lottery company, Premier Lotto, where he was tasked with setting up the Sales and Marketing teams. Despite having no prior experience in iGaming, his eagerness to learn turned this into a career-defining opportunity that launched his journey in the industry.
The best career decision
For Dr. Charles, the best decision was to remain in the iGaming industry despite its infancy in Nigeria at the time. He reflects:
Staying in iGaming was the biggest risk and the best decision. The safe option would have been to move to a traditional sector, but I stayed.
Seventeen years on, he has become a leading voice in lottery game design, responsible gaming, and consulting for national and international brands.
If he could turn back time
Looking back, Dr. Charles would have left a misaligned role sooner and better anticipated the rapid growth of sports betting and casino verticals in Nigeria. He notes:
I underestimated Nigeria’s appetite for sports betting and casino games. Positioning myself earlier in that vertical might have changed my path.
Advice for newcomers
Dr. Charles advises newcomers not to view iGaming as an instant cash cow:
Many think the industry prints money, but it doesn’t. Invest time to understand the market dynamics and product-market fit – that’s everything.
Building a personal brand in iGaming affiliation
He stresses consistency and curiosity:
I’ve built my brand by sharing what I learn about responsible gambling, betting behaviors, and player psychology. Digital exposure is key today – mastering social platforms is essential for affiliate marketers.
Strategies for responsible gambling
Education is paramount, says Dr. Charles:
When players understand risks, they set boundaries. Platforms must enforce spend caps, age restrictions, and onboarding checks. Responsible gaming is a shared duty, ensuring players make healthy choices.
Common mistakes made by influencers
Dr. Charles highlights a critical pitfall:
Promoting brands that don’t keep promises kills credibility. Influencers must stay honest, authentic, and selective to build trust in this growing market.
Dr. Charles Akhenamen’s journey from logistics to iGaming pioneer illustrates the power of seizing unexpected opportunities and staying adaptable. His insights on responsible gaming, brand building, and market awareness offer a valuable roadmap for success in Africa’s evolving iGaming landscape.
