Member states in Nigeria have welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to void the country’s National Lottery Act, as the ruling provides a fertile ground for innovation, responsible gambling and job creation.
Last month, the Supreme Court invalidated the Act’s claim to regulate gaming and lotteries across Nigeria. Instead, it said gaming regulation is a residual matter that falls under state jurisdiction, rather than the federal government.
The Lagos state government, which first raised the issue back in 2008, hosted a meeting of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) on 3 December to discuss the ruling. And the consensus was that it is a “watershed” moment for gaming regulation.
The FSGRN is an inter-state alliance made up of Nigeria’s various state lottery and gambling authorities.
Ruling empowers states to develop own frameworks
Bashir Are, CEO of Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) and chairman of FSGRN, said the ruling will unlock more economic opportunities for the sector.
“The decision provides a fertile ground for innovation, responsible gambling and job creation in gaming technology, game development and entertainment,” he said. “Our mission is to transform Nigerian youths from being passive participants to active creators in a thriving gaming ecosystem.”
Olajide Boladuro, director general of the Oyo State Gaming Board, added that the judgment had empowered states to develop gambling regulations that suit their unique cultures and economic landscapes.
Prince Imuomuen of Nigeria’s Edo State regulator encouraged the parties to increase inter-state collaboration on gambling matters.
“Through synergies states can ensure operators have clear guidelines and residents are better protected. FSGRN is committed to fostering partnerships that uphold the highest standards,” Imuomuen said.
Akinroluye Olajide, chairman of the Ondo State Lotteries Regulatory Commission, agreed. He also said inclusive engagement with operators will be key in forming future regulations.
“This ruling enables us to sanitise the industry by integrating willing operators into a legitimate framework. A collaborative approach ensures a sustainable and thriving gaming sector for all.”
Continuing support for URL regime
FSGRN members also underlined their commitment to the Universal Reciprocity Licence (URL) regime. Developed in partnership with Deloitte over the past two years, this has been designed to streamline licensing processes across member states.
As of 1 December, the URL system is fully operational across Nigeria. Are said the FSGRN is well prepared to enforce the regime and is urging operators to transition promptly.
“URL reflects our dedication to building a gaming industry where operators face reduced bureaucratic hurdles while ensuring compliance with global best practices and standards,” Are said.
“With the URL regime, we are creating a standardised yet flexible licensing ecosystem that will enhance industry credibility. It will reduce operational bottlenecks and drive growth in respective states. This system is a significant milestone and we are confident it will set a new benchmark for gaming regulation in Nigeria.”
The FSGRN also committed to partnering with federal agencies to align regulations with national policies. These include the Corporate Affairs Commission, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Nigeria Communications Commission and Nigeria Data Protection Commission.
“This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s gaming industry,” Are said. “With a united resolve, we will strengthen high regulatory standards, enhance revenue and protect residents from illegal gaming activities.”
