The meeting between the National Lotteries Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB) recently highlighted the challenges surrounding online lottery operations in Nigeria. During the meeting, the Managing Director of the NLRC, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting the ANB while stressing the importance of accurate and prompt remittances to the Federal Government.
Discussions focused on concerns raised by the ANB regarding non-compliance with some regulations, the recent enforcement actions of the NLRC in Ibadan and Lagos, as well as the costs associated with the Commission’s cybersecurity framework.
ANB Chairman, Sheriff Babatunde Olaniyan, stressed the need for NLRC intervention on the “unrealistic” guidelines of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), while seeking clarification on the role of the National Lottery Fund in regulating gaming.
Discussions between the NLRC and ANB also focused on casino licensing, with calls for reductions in fees deemed prohibitive for young operators. The parties discussed the need for clear regulations on quarterly remittances and cooperation with other government agencies.
Despite differences of opinion, the NLRC was firm in enforcing its regulations and insisted on compliance with the conditions of the licences granted. The Director General, Mr Gbajabiamila, stressed that action would be taken against non-compliant operators and reiterated that the Commission had the power to revoke licences if necessary.
Finally, the issue of jurisdiction over online lottery activities was discussed, with the NLRC clarifying that such activities fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government. Cooperative efforts were mentioned to resolve persistent misunderstandings between the Federal authorities and local governments.
This meeting between the NLRC and ANB is a testament to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the online lottery sector in Nigeria. It is essential for the various stakeholders to collaborate constructively to ensure a regulated and fair environment for the entire gaming industry.