House Moves To Strengthen Gaming Industry

Oluwakemi Kindness

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has highlighted the importance of a comprehensive legal framework for the nations growing gaming industry.

Abbas stated this at a public hearing on a bill, seeking to repeal the National Lottery Act of 2005 and its 2017 amendment.

Represented at the hearing by the Chairman, House Committee on Health Institutions, Patrick Umoh, Abbas noted that the bill aims to increase revenue, promote responsible gaming practices, and align Nigeria’s gaming sector with international standards.

He noted that the legislation proposes clear guidelines for online gaming operators, emphasizing data protection and strategies to curb underage gaming and money laundering.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Chairman, House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, Chukwugozie Nwachukwu, emphasized that the public hearing served as a platform for stakeholders to share insights, ensuring inclusive and effective legislation.

He expressed optimism that feedback from stakeholders would help create a law that supports national development while protecting Nigerian gamers both locally and abroad.

However, Director General, Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, Olajide Boladuro, expressed reservations about the National Assembly’s authority to legislate on the bill, citing a Supreme Court judgment.

Stakeholders like Dr. Onwusoro Ihemelandu, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, commended the bill for its detailed provisions but raised concerns about the need for a dedicated regulatory ministry to oversee the gaming industry’s activities.

As deliberations continue, the proposed Central Gaming Bill aims to address regulation gaps, enhance industry effectiveness, and secure a more structured gaming environment in Nigeria.