Quick Facts About Kunle Soname
- Full Name: Kunle Soname
- Born: April 27, 1966 (Ogun State, Nigeria)
- Role: Owner and Chairman of Bet9ja
- Co-Founder: Ayo Ojuroye (CEO)
- Company: KC Gaming Networks Limited
- Net Worth: Estimated $100+ million
- Education: Lagos State University (Political Science, 1996)
- Family: Married to Kemi Soname, daughter Erioluwa
Early Life and Education
Born on April 27, 1966, in Ogun State, Kunle Soname grew up with a passion for sports and entrepreneurship. He attended Federal Government College, Lagos, for his secondary education, then proceeded to Lagos State University (LASU), where he graduated in 1996 with a degree in Political Science.
Before founding Bet9ja, Soname served in public office as the Executive Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council in Lagos State from October 2003 to October 2011. During his tenure, he was instrumental in building and reconstructing the Boarder Stadium at Olowora, Isheri, Lagos—showcasing his early commitment to sports development in Nigeria. 🏟️
The Story Behind Bet9ja
In 2013, Kunle Soname and Ayo Ojuroye saw an opportunity to revolutionize sports betting in Nigeria. They launched Bet9ja with a vision to create a reliable, user-friendly platform that would allow Nigerians to bet on local and international sports events.
What sets the ownership structure apart is the clear division of roles: Soname serves as chairman, focusing on strategic direction and business expansion, while Ojuroye serves as CEO, handling day-to-day operations. This partnership has been key to Bet9ja’s rapid growth.
Within its first year, Bet9ja became one of the top betting companies in Nigeria, offering competitive odds, live betting, virtual games, and casino options. By 2019, it was the second-most-visited website in Nigeria, according to Google.
Kunle Soname’s Business Empire
Beyond Bet9ja, Soname has built a diverse portfolio across multiple industries:
Sports Ownership
Soname founded Remo Stars Football Club (formerly FC DENDER) in 2004. The club, based in his home state of Ogun, currently plays in the top division of the Nigerian Premier League. His commitment to developing Nigerian football has earned him respect across the sports industry.
In 2015, Soname made history as the first Nigerian to acquire a European football club when he purchased a 70% stake in Clube Desportivo Feirense in Portugal. This milestone achievement demonstrated his ambition to put Nigerian investors on the global sports map. 🏆
Aviation
In 2022, Soname launched ValueJet, a domestic Nigerian airline focused on providing affordable, reliable air travel. The airline operates short-haul routes across Nigeria, focusing on punctuality and customer service to address common complaints about Nigerian aviation.
Manufacturing and Agriculture
Soname owns Ceramco Trading Limited, a company that manufactures ceramic tiles and sanitary ware under the FERRI Porcelanato brand. He also operates Kuker Farms & Processing Ltd in Abeokuta, Ogun State, focusing on poultry production and processing.
Financial Services
As a co-founder and shareholder of Optimus Bank, Soname is also investing in Nigeria’s banking sector, aiming to provide tech-forward financial services to everyday Nigerians.
Impact on Nigerian Sports and Youth Employment
Kunle Soname’s influence extends far beyond profit. Through Bet9ja, he has sponsored major Nigerian sporting events, including:
- Nigerian Premier League (official sponsor)
- Nigerian National League
- Lagos City Marathon
- SociaLiga (grassroots football development)
- Big Brother Naija (2019 season)
Bet9ja has created employment for over 5,000 agents across Nigeria, providing income opportunities for young Nigerians in both urban and rural areas. This commitment to youth empowerment aligns with Soname’s stated mission to reduce crime and violence by giving young people productive opportunities.
💡 Important Note: While learning about the owner of Bet9ja is interesting, remember that sports betting should always be approached responsibly. Bet only what you can afford to lose, and never view betting as a guaranteed source of income. Bet9ja and this website promote responsible gambling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is richer: Kunle Soname or Akin Alabi?
Kunle Soname’s estimated net worth of $100+ million is significantly higher than Akin Alabi’s, the founder of Nairabet. Soname’s wealth comes from his diverse business interests beyond betting, including aviation, sports ownership, and manufacturing.
Is Ayo Ojuroye the owner of Bet9ja?
No, Ayo Ojuroye is the CEO and co-founder of Bet9ja, not the owner. While he manages daily operations and holds equity in the company, Kunle Soname is the majority shareholder and owner through KC Gaming Networks Limited.
Where is Kunle Soname from in Nigeria?
Kunle Soname hails from the Remo area of Ogun State, Nigeria. His roots in Ogun State are evident in his investments, including Remo Stars FC and Kuker Farms in Abeokuta.
Who is the owner of Bet9ja – Final Thoughts
Kunle Soname stands as one of Nigeria’s most successful sports entrepreneurs. From launching Bet9ja to owning football clubs in Nigeria and Portugal, his impact on Nigerian sports betting and entertainment is undeniable. His business acumen, combined with a genuine passion for sports development, has created thousands of jobs and entertainment options for millions of Nigerians.
Whether you’re a Bet9ja user curious about the platform’s origins or a Nigerian entrepreneur looking for inspiration, Kunle Soname’s journey from Ogun State politician to multi-millionaire business owner offers valuable lessons in vision, partnership, and diversification. 🚀