Meeting in Nigeria to discuss recent verdict on gambling regulation

The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) held a groundbreaking meeting at Lagos’s Radisson Hotel to discuss a recent Supreme Court verdict in Suit No. SC/1/2008, Attorney General of Lagos State & Others vs. Attorney General of the Federation & Others. This pivotal decision dismissed the National Lottery Act’s authority over gaming regulation nationwide, instead affirming gaming as a matter to be handled by state jurisdictions in accordance with the Constitution.

Representatives from 24 member states attended this meeting, marking a significant moment for Nigeria’s federal structure. The FSGRN released a statement following the meeting, indicating that the ruling is a clear affirmation of states’ constitutional rights and a transformative moment for gaming regulation.

Olajide Boladuro, the Director General of the Oyo State Gaming Board, celebrated this ruling as a win for federalism, stating, “This is crucial in reinforcing Nigeria’s federal structure. By granting regulatory authority to states, the judiciary has empowered them to create frameworks that align with their specific cultural and economic needs. This is a victory for constitutional clarity.”

Prince Imuomuen from Edo State emphasized the importance of collaboration between states, noting, “This ruling presents a historic chance to synchronize regulatory efforts. Through cooperation, states can set clear guidelines for operators, enhancing resident protections. The FSGRN is dedicated to fostering partnerships that maintain high standards.”

Bashir Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority and Chairman of FSGRN, highlighted the economic potential unlocked by the Supreme Court’s decision. “The ruling creates a foundation for innovation, responsible gambling, and job opportunities in gaming technology and entertainment. We aim to shift Nigerian youths from mere participants to creators in a flourishing gaming sector,” Are stated.

From Enugu State, Nosike Nwaemeka stressed the significance of building capabilities. “To harness the full potential of this judgment, we need to strengthen our institutions, invest in capacity building, and implement best practices. Collaboration is key, both among states and with stakeholders, to drive social responsibility and attract investment,” he added.

Representing Ondo State, Akinroluye Olajide, Chairman of the Ondo State Lotteries Regulatory Commission, highlighted the importance of engaging operators inclusively. “This ruling enables us to cleanse the industry by incorporating willing operators into a legitimate framework. A collaborative approach ensures a sustainable and thriving gaming sector,” he remarked.

Uche Ngonebu, General Manager of the Imo State Gaming Commission, called for technological advancements in regulation. “The future of gaming regulation is centered on robust digital systems. By incorporating technology into monitoring and compliance, we position ourselves as leaders in Africa’s gaming regulatory landscape,” he stressed.

Micheal Eja, Director General of the Cross River State Gaming Commission, invited states not yet in the FSGRN to join the efforts. “This is a unique opportunity to develop a cohesive gaming regulation approach. We encourage other states to join the Federation and take advantage of shared resources and expertise,” he said.

The FSGRN reaffirmed its commitment to the Universal Reciprocity License (URL) Regime, a pioneering initiative in collaboration with Deloitte, designed to simplify licensing across member states while upholding their independence. Bashir Are expressed his confidence in the system, stating, “The URL Regime reflects our dedication to creating a gaming industry with reduced bureaucratic barriers while adhering to global best practices. Deloitte’s work has been crucial in devising a solution that addresses our federation’s needs as a Self-Regulatory Organization.”

The FSGRN announced that the URL system would be operational from December 1, 2024. Are emphasized the Federation’s preparedness to enforce the regime, highlighting its potential to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the gaming industry.

With the URL regime, the FSGRN aims to establish a standardized yet adaptable licensing system that will boost industry credibility, mitigate operational challenges, and promote growth across states. “This system marks a significant milestone, and we are confident it will set new standards for gaming regulation in Nigeria,” he concluded.

The Federation encouraged operators to transition to the new system swiftly, pledging support in compliance while ensuring that states maintain regulatory autonomy within a cohesive framework.

Kayode Balogun, Head of Pools and Betting at the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service, lauded the judgment as a basis for policy innovation. “The ruling reinforces our capacity to enforce localized policies that balance economic advancement with social welfare. The gaming sector holds immense potential, and we are committed to unlocking it responsibly,” he affirmed.

Tanko Abdullahi from Nasarawa State emphasized the judgment’s importance for traditionally conservative areas. “This decision enables us to regulate gaming in a way that aligns with our values. Collaborative efforts will ensure the industry develops responsibly nationwide,” he commented.

The Federation reiterated its intent to collaborate with federal entities such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). These collaborations aim to ensure gaming regulations resonate with national policies while upholding state independence. FSGRN already maintains a strong partnership with the SCUML division of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

Concluding the meeting, Mr. Are expressed optimism, stating, “This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s gaming industry. With a united commitment, we will uphold high regulatory standards, enhance revenue, and protect citizens from illegal gaming activities. FSGRN is dedicated to moving the sector forward as a significant economic contributor.”

FSGRN announced plans to host a larger stakeholder meeting to address implementing the judgment practically. The Federation reassured the public of its commitment to respecting the judiciary’s decision, maintaining regulatory excellence, and advancing the gaming sector as a vital economic player.

The Federation remains open to all states interested in joining the collective effort to ensure Nigeria stays at the forefront of Africa’s gaming industry.