• NLRC charts path to ethical growth, national development
By Damiete Braide
The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has called for stronger collaborations to foster responsible gaming practices while advancing Nigeria’s economic growth.
At the 2024 stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos recently, industry leaders, regulatory agencies and government representatives gathered under the theme “Strengthening Partnerships for Responsible Gaming and National Development.” The meeting highlighted the importance of ethical operations within the gaming sector and the broader role it can play in achieving national development goals.
In his opening remarks, NLRC’s director-general, Lanre Gbajabiamila, underscored the dual mission of promoting growth in the gaming industry while safeguarding societal interests.
“The significance of responsible gaming, both in safeguarding the interests of our citizens and in contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic goals, cannot be overstated,” he said. Gbajabiamila stressed that collaborative efforts among stakeholders were essential to striking a balance between financial growth and social responsibility, thereby ensuring the sector’s sustainability.
The director-general further explained that the event served as a platform for key stakeholders, including the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, to engage in dialogue.
This open exchange was aimed at aligning goals, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing the transparency of operations.
“The revenues raised in the industry must be properly used for good causes,” he added, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to ethical governance.
The Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Zaphaniah Jisalo, reiterated the government’s recognition of the gaming sector as a critical driver of economic growth. He noted that the government is actively seeking new revenue streams to bolster the nation’s economy and that the gaming industry holds immense potential in this regard.
“The gaming industry has significant potential as an economic driver for Nigeria,” Jisalo said. He called for stronger collaboration with operators to maximize the sector’s contributions, emphasizing the importance of a transparent and cooperative environment.
The event also spotlighted the contributions of the National Lottery Trust Fund. Executive secretary, Tosin Adeyanju, detailed the Fund’s achievements, including over 350 projects completed in various communities within the last four months. These initiatives, he explained, focus primarily on sports and health interventions, bringing tangible benefits to citizens.
“We are committed to using our resources for humanitarian services and good causes,” Adeyanju stated, adding that the Fund’s new four-year strategic plan will guide its future investments. He credited these accomplishments to the consistent remittances from lottery operators and called for continued stakeholder cooperation to achieve even greater impact.
A key issue discussed during the meeting was the growing prevalence of unethical practices in digital advertising, as highlighted by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). The ARCON director-general, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, raised concerns over the unregulated nature of digital advertising, contrasting it with the high compliance levels observed in traditional media.
“In the digital space, everyone does whatever they like,” Fadolapo said. He emphasized the urgent need for stricter enforcement of advertising regulations to curb fraudulent schemes and protect consumers. Citing international examples, such as the fines imposed on U.S. reality TV star Kim Kardashian for promoting a dubious cryptocurrency scheme, Fadolapo warned of the economic and social risks posed by unethical advertising.
The ARCON has already taken action against organizations violating advertising standards, and Fadolapo promised continued reforms to ensure the online advertising landscape in Nigeria becomes ethical and transparent. “As gatekeepers of advertising, we will not allow these unethical practices to go unchecked,” he affirmed.
The stakeholders’ meeting also addressed other critical areas, including cybersecurity, data protection, and anti-money laundering measures. By engaging with representatives from the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit and the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, the discussions highlighted the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the integrity of the gaming sector.
Throughout the event, the importance of trust and accountability resonated strongly. Gbajabiamila reiterated the essential role of media and stakeholders in documenting progress and fostering transparency.
“Your role in documenting and supporting these developments is invaluable,” he said, encouraging collaborative efforts to ensure the sector remains transparent and credible.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to leveraging the economic potential of the gaming industry while upholding its social responsibilities. Participants agreed that through stronger partnerships, ethical practices, and rigorous oversight, the gaming sector could serve as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s socio-economic advancement.
By fostering responsible gaming and strengthening regulatory measures, the NLRC and its partners aim to create a gaming environment that not only generates revenue but also upholds the well-being of the Nigerian public.