NLRC Urges Stronger Collaboration to Tackle Illegal Lottery Operations in Nigeria

Challenges in Enforcing Lottery Regulations

The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has called for closer cooperation between federal and state lottery regulators in Nigeria. This appeal was made after a recent enforcement action in Lagos and Ibadan, where NLRC officials faced resistance while attempting to shut down illegal gaming operations.

According to Lanre Gbajabiamila, Director General of the NLRC, state lottery boards need to collaborate with the federal government to effectively address regulatory challenges in the growing gaming sector. He emphasized, “In spite of the harassment of members of our staff, we are calling on all States Lottery Boards to collaborate with the NLRC in eradicating unlicensed and illegal operations from the industry.”

Importance of Federal Oversight

Gbajabiamila highlighted the need for federal oversight in an industry that has outgrown the capacity of individual states to regulate effectively. He stressed that only the federal government possesses the necessary resources to combat illegal operations that often involve international elements.

“The lottery industry has continued to grow beyond state-level control and only the federal government, with its broader resources, can effectively address international infiltrations and ensure the industry’s integrity,” he said. This underscores the growing complexity of the Nigerian lottery market, which increasingly demands coordinated regulation to protect consumers and ensure lawful operations.

Operators Respond to Crackdown with Promises of Compliance

The recent crackdown in Lagos and Ibadan focused on establishments engaged in unauthorized online sports betting and casino activities, which were swiftly shut down. In response, some operators expressed willingness to align their operations with the NLRC’s legal framework.

Gbajabiamila reiterated the significance of compliance, saying, “Securing the necessary licenses and operating within the law is not just a requirement, it is a collective responsibility to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s gaming sector.” He urged all operators to work within the regulatory guidelines to foster a lawful and transparent gaming environment.

Broader Enforcement in Lagos

Following the Ibadan operations, the NLRC extended its crackdown to several areas in Lagos, including Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, and Egbeda, where more illegal establishments were closed.

This action reflects the NLRC’s commitment to eradicating unlicensed operators and ensuring that the lottery industry remains transparent and fair. Gbajabiamila concluded, “Together, we can build a transparent and lawful gaming industry that benefits all.”