THE National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW) has warned that Nigeria might be losing billions of Naira if the Federal Government fails to urgently reform the industry, which presently contributes an estimated $250 million (approximately N500 billion) yearly to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The union said the sector’s contribution highlights its potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and serve the public good in Africa’s largest economy.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, NUGLOW’s National Treasurer, David Omaghomi, highlighted the need for reform to harness the industry’s full potential, while ensuring fairness, professionalism, and improved conditions for workers and stakeholders.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s gaming market outpaces that of neighbouring countries, including the popular Ghana Games, which contributes only $64 million yearly.
“Our potential is huge, our population is huge, and our market is huge. Beyond the contribution to GDP, the industry employs 650,000 people, with Lagos being the highest contributor,” he said.
Omaghomi noted that unregulated operators exploit the market, depriving the government of revenue and workers of fair benefits.
He criticised foreign operators for exploiting the local market, evading taxes, and failing to contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
The treasurer pledged the union’s collaboration with regulatory authorities to address the situation, and uphold the integrity.
The union also underscored the significance of a landmark Supreme Court ruling that nullified the National Lottery Act, enabling states to regulate gaming activities within their jurisdictions.
It described the judgment as a pivotal development that would “change the interface of gaming”, by fostering collaboration with state regulators, who are better positioned to oversee activities at the grassroots.
Shedding more light, Deputy General Secretary of the union, Wale Balogun, said the sector creates over 650,000 jobs yearly, with over 147 registered operators in the sector, urging robust unionisation.
