Lagos State takes action against unlicensed gaming operators
By Adejoke Esther
The publication of illegal gaming operations in Lagos State has highlighted the ongoing regulatory conflict between the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC).
Recently, the Lagos State government declared several gaming operators illegal despite some having valid federal licenses, emphasising that gaming regulation is a state matter based on the residual legislative list of the Nigerian Constitution
As part of efforts to ensure proper regulation as well as promote sanity in the lotteries and gaming industry, the Lagos State Gaming has named 37 unlicensed gaming operators in the State.
A release signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Mr. Bashir Abiola Are, advised all residents to desist from patronising the platforms of the unlicensed gaming companies in a bid to avoid scam and deception.
He stressed that Section 5, Part II of the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, Cap T2 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives exclusive authority of Pool Betting, Lotteries, Gaming, Casino and related matters to State Governments.
According to him, the 37 unregistered gaming companies are operating without the required licence and approval of the Lagos State Government, thereby making their activities illegal in the State.
Are listed the names of the unauthorised gaming operators in Lagos as Betwinner, Bestbet360, Msport, Melbet, Chopbarh, Lottonigeria, Chase Lotto, Bangbet, Booster99, Betika and Nairamillion. Others include Home and Cars Giveaway, Hamabet, Koretbet, Paripesa, Megabet, Bet365, Cloudbet, Zoomlifestyle, Zebet, Livescorebet, Allcitybet, 22bet, Lottomania, Gablotto, Lucky Number, Bettybingo, Lovingbet, Ebonybet, Betmonster, Superbet, Pmubet, Zenithbet, Mars Leisure Pools, Ubc 365bet, Afribet and Easybet.
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) regulates, protects and promotes gaming activities in Lagos State by leveraging on technological innovation and global best practices to make Lagos State a preferred gaming business destination in Africa.
