Enugu State gaming regulator cracks down on unlicensed gaming operations
Acting based on a tip-off, the commission visited and sealed illegal jackpot slot machines at multiple entertainment centres.
Nigeria.- The Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission (ESGLC) has shut down several unlicensed gaming outlets across the state as it ramps up its enforcement against illegal gaming.
Acting based on a tip-off, the commission visited and sealed illegal jackpot slot machines at multiple entertainment centres, including Guaranty Resort, Ballroom, Edge Guest House, Eclipse Resort and Desa Park City Suite/Garden.
The sealed machines were all reportedly operated by Yanga Game, a leading sports betting and online gaming provider in Nigeria, which had not secured the necessary regulatory approval from the ESGLC to offer gaming services in the state.
While briefing the media during the weekend enforcement exercise, Prince Arinze Arun, the commission’s executive secretary, stressed that the agency is responsible for issuing licences to gaming operators and ensuring they comply with the state’s gaming laws and regulations.
Arum cautioned operators against attempting to evade the rules or operate clandestinely, emphasising that the agency’s newly deployed technologies feature geo-location capabilities that identify and monitor all licensed gaming operators in the state.
According to the executive secretary, the crackdown demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices.
He said: “We have come out here today to enforce the rules, and we set out to shut down and seal illegal gaming operators in the state. Government is serious about promoting responsible gaming.
“For us, it starts with knowing the players in the industry in the state, licensed operators. We must have a structured gaming ecosystem, and that begins with proper licensing. That way, you know your operators and your stakeholders in the industry. Anybody that is operating illegally, behind the scene, is already creating problems, and we will not tolerate that.”
Arum further noted that the process of obtaining a gaming licence in the state is now hassle-free thanks to newly-deployed technologies that have reduced the duration from months to seven working days or less, and even allows operators to apply online from the comfort of their homes.
Arum stated that the decision to streamline licensing procedures is part of the government’s broader effort to create a conducive business environment in the state, especially as Governor Peter Mbah aims to grow Enugu’s economy sevenfold to $30bn.
The regulatory exercise comes as the state prepares to host a landmark gaming conference on July 30 and 31 at the International Conference Centre, Enugu. According to organisers, the program will drive in-depth conversations on the future of gaming regulation, technology, investment and accessibility in Nigeria and beyond.
