NLRC pledges support for bookmakers, tasks operators on remittance

• Lawmaker says gaming industry can boost forex, job creation

The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has reiterated its commitment to supporting the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB), urging its members to ensure accurate and prompt remittances to the Federal Government.

During a visit by the ANB in Abuja, the Director General, Mr Lanre Gbajabiamila, expressed the Federal Government’s concern over the non-compliance of some lottery operators, particularly those running unlicensed online casinos.

“The commission will, from now on, sanction operators who fail to remit their dues, change their business addresses without notification or operate online casinos without the proper licence,” Gbajabiamila asserted.

The visit provided a platform for ANB Chairman, Sheriff Olaniyan, to outline several concerns troubling the association, including allegations of non-compliance, recent NLRC enforcement actions in Ibadan and Lagos, issues with the Commission’s Cybersecurity Framework Fees and concerns about withholding tax regulations.

In defence of ANB members, Olaniyan argued that the allegations of non-compliance were exaggerated, claiming that 98 per cent of its members adhere to NLRC regulations.

Also, House of Representative member for Idemili North/South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, Uchenna Okonkwo, reaffirmed his commitment to a regulatory framework supporting indigenous businesses in the sector.

The lawmaker pledged to collaborate with government agencies to ensure that gaming platforms not only comply with regulations but also receive the necessary backing to succeed locally and globally.

Speaking at the launch of T2Bet, a new gaming platform, Okonkwo highlighted the potential of such platforms to bring economic value to the country while empowering the youth.

According to him, the gaming industry extends far beyond just betting and gaming, highlighting the ecosystem of professionals involved, such as developers, regulatory experts and ancillary services that contribute to a platform’s success.

The lawmaker urged young Nigerians to take advantage of the growth in the sector, adding: “There is room for growth, not just in gaming but in all the ancillary services that support platforms like this.”

He expressed his belief that indigenous online betting platforms like T2Bet could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy by attracting foreign exchange and creating job opportunities.