Abuja cracks down on underage gambling with sweeping new reforms
Zero-tolerance policy unveiled as Nigeria’s capital targets investor confidence and a regulated, youth-safe gaming industry.
Nigeria.- The Nigerian government has drawn a hard line in the sand, launching a bold new zero-tolerance campaign against underage gambling in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a move set to redefine the country’s gambling landscape, a new revamped regulatory framework was unveiled this week, positioning Abuja as both a model for responsible gambling and Africa’s next entertainment powerhouse.
Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Lanre Gbajabiamila, said the era of leniency was over.
“There is zero tolerance for underage gambling. Any operator allowing minors to gamble will be penalised. We are building an industry grounded in responsibility, regulation and fairness,” he declared at a press briefing in Abuja, according to the Leadership publication.
This sweeping reform follows a landmark Supreme Court ruling confirming the FCT Administration’s authority to govern gaming operations within the territory. The ruling effectively transferred control to the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office (FCT-LRO), which will now enforce the new rules in partnership with the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS).
Despite the significant shift, Gbajabiamila reassured operators that the transition would be smooth.
“All existing licences remain valid under FCT-LRO. No reapplication is needed, only the regulatory jurisdiction has changed.”
He added that collaboration with tech giants like Google had already begun to resolve jurisdictional issues.
“The era of single-state dominance is over,” he said, affirming the FCT’s right to manage gambling within its boundaries.
Acting Executive Secretary of the FCT-IRS, Michael Ango, stressed the broader economic impact of the initiative.
“Gaming is more than recreation, it is a driver of economic growth if well-managed. Our focus is on oversight, tax efficiency and protecting minors.”
As part of the overhaul, all participants will soon be required to verify their identities using Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) or digital checks. Underage or unregistered players will be blocked from accessing gaming platforms, with strict penalties awaiting operators who fail to comply.
“The future of gaming in Abuja is not just bright, it is strategic. Through regulation and collaboration, the FCT is ready for the global stage,” Ango affirmed.
With its eye firmly on transparency, protection and investment, Abuja is not just tightening the rules, it’s raising the bar.
