Last month, the Supreme Court concluded that gaming and lottery regulation in Nigeria is a matter for individual states, not the federal government. This decision nullified the previous Act’s federal claim to regulate these sectors nationwide.
The Lagos state government, which first raised such concerns in 2008, convened a meeting of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) on December 3 to analyze the court’s decision. Attendees at the meeting regarded the decision as a significant turning point for gaming regulation.
FSGRN is comprised of various state lottery and gambling authorities across Nigeria.
### States Empowered to Establish Their Own Regulations
Bashir Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) and chairman of FSGRN, expressed that the ruling opens new economic pathways for the sector. He commented, “This decision fosters innovation, responsible gambling, and job creation in gaming technology, game development, and entertainment. Our aim is to transform Nigerian youths from passive participants to active contributors in a thriving gaming ecosystem.”
Olajide Boladuro, director general of the Oyo State Gaming Board, added that the ruling allows states to craft gambling regulations tailored to their distinct cultures and economic contexts.
Prince Imuomuen from the Edo State regulator called for increased collaboration among states on gambling issues, emphasizing that, “Through cooperation, states can provide clear guidelines for operators and ensure better protection for residents. FSGRN is devoted to fostering partnerships that maintain high standards.”
Akinroluye Olajide, chairman of the Ondo State Lotteries Regulatory Commission, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of inclusive engagement with operators for future regulations. “This ruling helps us legitimize the industry by assimilating willing operators into a formal framework. A cooperative approach is crucial for a sustainable and thriving gaming sector,” Olajide noted.
### Support for the Universal Reciprocity Licence
FSGRN members reiterated their commitment to the Universal Reciprocity Licence (URL) regime, developed in collaboration with Deloitte over the past two years to unify licensing procedures across member states.
As of December 1, the URL system is fully operational in Nigeria. Are emphasized that FSGRN is ready to enforce this regime and encourages operators to adopt it promptly. He stated, “The URL mirrors our commitment to an industry with reduced bureaucratic challenges while ensuring adherence to global best practices.”
He further elaborated, “The URL regime offers a standardized yet adaptable licensing framework, enhancing industry credibility, minimizing operational obstacles, and spurring growth in various states—a crucial technological leap we are confident will elevate gaming regulation standards in Nigeria.”
Additionally, FSGRN pledged to collaborate with federal agencies to align regulations with national policies, including entities like the Corporate Affairs Commission, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Nigeria Communications Commission, and Nigeria Data Protection Commission.
Are concluded by saying, “This is a landmark moment for Nigeria’s gaming industry. With unified determination, we will reinforce stringent regulatory standards, increase revenue, and safeguard residents from illicit gaming practices.”