Abuja gets new regulatory body for lottery and gaming operations
The commission will partner with other government agencies and stakeholders to create a thriving and responsible gaming environment.
Nigeria.- The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has opened a new office in Abuja for the newly established FCT Lottery Regulatory Commission.
The inauguration of the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office (FCT-LRO) signifies a major milestone for the commission as it begins to exercise full regulatory oversight of all lottery and gaming operations within the territory.
Based on its new regulatory framework, the FCT-LRO will ensure that lottery and gaming activities in the nation’s capital adhere to laws, promote responsible gaming practices to protect players, and generate revenue for the Federal Capital Territory. The commission will partner with other government agencies and stakeholders to create a thriving and responsible gaming environment.
Lanre Gbajabiamila, the director-general of FCT-LRO, said: “Our priorities include collaboration with the Office of the FCT Minister and the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) to ensure proper oversight, fair practices, and prompt revenue remittance.”
Michael Ango, acting executive chairman of the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to stimulate economic development in the FCT. He said: “Abuja is fast emerging as a major tourist and leisure destination. The gaming sector is a vital piece of that puzzle, with huge potential to attract investment, create jobs and boost economic activity.”
Ango noted that the initiative aligns with the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s vision to reposition Abuja as a world-class capital.
He also said that the synergy between the IRS and the FCT-LRO will optimise revenue generation and create a well-regulated gaming environment that benefits operators, players and residents alike.
The FCT-LRO was established in response to the Supreme Court’s verdict in AG Lagos & Ors vs AG Federation & Anor SC/1/2008, which confirmed the FCT’s constitutional right to regulate gaming and lottery activities.
Since the ruling invalidated the National Lottery Regulation Commission (NLRC), it also gave other states in Nigeria authority to oversee lottery and games of chance in their respective domains.
Earlier this month, the Benue Sports Marketing and Lottery Board (BSMLB) unveiled its new logo.
