Reps Move To Regulate Online, Remote Gaming
By Juliet Vincent
The House of Representatives is making strides toward strengthening the regulation of online and remote gaming across the nation through a proposed Central Gaming Bill.
During a public hearing on the bill, which seeks to repeal the National Lottery Act of 2005 and its 2017 amendment, Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, highlighted the importance of a comprehensive legal framework for the growing gaming industry.
The Speaker, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions, Hon. Patrick Umoh, noted that the bill aims to increase revenue, promote responsible gaming practices, and align Nigeria’s gaming sector with international standards.
Additionally, the legislation proposes clear guidelines for online gaming operators, emphasizing data protection and strategies to curb underage gaming and money laundering.
Hon. Chukwugozie Nwachukwu, Chairman of the House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, 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, Olajide Boladuro, Director General of the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, 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.
