Benue State targets N700m from gambling operations
Following the NLB’s dissolution, states now have full control over their lottery operations and regulations.
Nigeria.- Benue State has the potential to generate up to N700 million (€386,548) annually from gambling operations, according to Michael Uper, executive secretary of the Benue Sports Marketing and Lottery Board (BSMLB).
Uper made the projection during the unveiling of Benue State’s official lottery logo in Makurdi. He pointed out the enormous opportunities in the gaming sector to boost Benue State’s revenue generation.
Uper said: “Each gaming location is expected to remit a registration fee of N100,000 (€55), which is renewable. There is a pressing need for Benue to explore this sector.”
Uper further mentioned that the state’s lottery sector lacked organisation before his appointment, but with Governor Alia’s full support, the board is positioned to tap into its revenue potential.
Following the National Lottery Board’s dissolution, Uper added that states now have full control over their lottery operations and regulations. He said: ” With the federal government no longer in control of this sector, states are stepping up to harness the opportunities available in lottery administration.”
The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) was dissolved by a Supreme Court ruling in November 2024. Before the ruling, the NLRC was the primary regulator of lottery and gambling activities in Nigeria. Since states had limited jurisdiction over gambling regulation at that time, there were no established state-level regulatory frameworks.
With their success at the country’s highest court, state regulators are now taking charge of gaming oversight and looking to maximise the economic benefits.
