OPay is facing backlash from Nigerian youths over its decision to feature multiple betting applications on its platform, with critics accusing the fintech giant of endangering young Nigerians amid growing concern over gambling addiction in the country.
The criticism trailed posts on X (formerly Twitter), where several users and influencers accused OPay of exposing its customers, particularly teenagers, to gambling risks by bundling betting apps alongside everyday financial services.
One user, popular X commentator Bearded Shina, called on the federal government to place an embargo on OPay, arguing that housing betting and gambling platforms within a transaction app was reckless and could deepen an already worsening addiction crisis.
According to him, a recent conversation with a tech industry contact who explained how betting products like “Aviator” work convinced him that urgent regulatory action was needed. He described OPay as a “financial Pandora’s box” that could unleash further harm on Nigerians already struggling with gambling addiction, noting the absence of adequate rehabilitation support in the country.
He further argued that global standards typically place age restrictions on betting platforms, and warned that integrating such services into a everyday financial app used by minors and adults alike was a dangerous and retrogressive step capable of destabilising the economy.
Another user, Sporting King, echoed similar concerns, stating that financial institutions entrusted with people’s money should prioritise helping customers save and invest rather than facilitating gambling. He described OPay’s move as a troubling departure from the core responsibilities of a financial platform.
The backlash comes after OPay quietly rolled out a “game centre” feature offering access to several betting platforms, including Aviator, within its app.
Checks by this publication, however, confirmed that OPay has since removed the feature from its platform.
Attempts to reach OPay’s PR lead for comments on the development were unsuccessful as of the time of filing.
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