The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has called on state lottery regulatory agencies to close ranks with it in an effort to sanitise the Nigerian lottery ecosystem for seamless and more transparent activities.
This call was made on Tuesday by the Director General of the Commission, Mr Lanre Gbajabiamila, following a recent crackdown carried out by the Commission in Lagos and Ibadan, where the exercise was marred by some challenges.
Gbajabiamila, who was disturbed by the harassment faced by NLRC staff while performing their duties, urged state regulators to support the Federal Government in combating illegal activities within the industry.
“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.
“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.
“We urge all state agencies and operators within the gaming industry to ensure full cooperation with the NLRC’s regulatory framework.
“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.
“Together, we can build a transparent and lawful gaming industry that benefits all,” Gbajabiamila said.
Among those targeted in the exercise in Ibadan and Lagos were several establishments engaged in unauthorised online sports betting and online casino activities, which were promptly shut down by the Commission.
In response to these actions, some operators, while demonstrating their willingness to regularise their activities and adhere to the legal framework set by the commission, pledged to operate in line with NLRC regulations.
The crackdown was carried out in other areas in Lagos, including Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja and Egbeda, where additional closures were carried out. (NAN)
