NUGLOW inaugurates Lagos council, pledges to safeguard workers’ interests

The National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of agents and companies in the industry, following the inauguration of its Lagos State Council.

Its National General Secretary, Gregory Olatunji, who made this known at the at the inauguration ceremony of new executives of Lagos State Chapter of NUGLOW, disclosed that the union has been engaging with business owners since 2014 to address issues affecting their workers.

He said the union’s primary goal “is to ensure fair treatment of agents working on commission for lottery and betting companies, lamenting that instead of increasing commissions, companies often decrease them, forcing agents to make losses.”

The union also bemoaned harassment by law enforcement agencies, saying, “Many times, agents were arrested, and their terminals seized by law enforcement agencies. But the union intervenes, bails them out, and retrieves their terminals.”

He called on the government to create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, citing excessive taxation as a major challenge.

“When companies thrive, agents will also thrive. The government should reduce taxation and ensure law enforcement agencies stop harassing agents.”

Olatunji noted that the betting and lottery industry is a win-win situation for both business owners and the government, generating significant tax revenue for the country.

He encouraged agents to join the union, emphasising the benefits of membership, including improved wages, social benefits, and protection from harassment.

The inauguration of the Lagos State Council marks a significant milestone in the union’s quest to safeguard workers’ rights in the betting and lottery industry.

Those inaugurated include: Chairman, NUGLOW, Lagos State, Quadri Abel; Vice Chairman, A. Omole; Secretary,  Ekundayo Shoyoye; Assistant Secretary, Dayo Epebinu; Treasurer, Oluwafemi Ogunremi; Public Relation Officer, Monsur Odunade; Financial Secretary, Adeleye Ogunbiyi; Social Secretary, Mobolaji Babatunde and Women Leader, Ashabi Ogunodojutimi.