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Nigerian state gambling regulators are streamlining their licensing regimes in the wake of a recent landmark court ruling that confirmed their right to regulate gambling in their jurisdictions.
The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) held a meeting attended by representatives of its 24 members in Lagos on November 28, following a recent Supreme Court ruling which invalidated the National Lottery Act’s claim to regulate gaming and lotteries across Nigeria.
Key to the FSGRN’s development is the rolling out of the Universal Reciprocity License (URL) regime, a system developed by Deloitte to monitor licensees, and “reduce bureaucratic hurdles while ensuring compliance with global best practices and standards,” according to FSGRN chair, and CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), Bashir Are.
“With the URL regime, we are creating a standardised yet flexible licensing ecosystem that will enhance industry credibility, reduce operational bottlenecks, and drive growth in respective states. This system is a significant milestone, and we are confident it will set a new benchmark for gaming regulation in Nigeria,” Are said.
The URL has been fully operational since December 1, 2024, with Are stating it is ready to be enforced.
Not many details were provided on the specifics of the URL in the LSLGA update published on December 3.
However, it will be well-received news for many operators that have in the past called for more clarity surrounding licensing requirements in states.
During the meeting, the FSGRN also reiterated its commitment to working with a long list of federal agencies including the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), the Communications Commission, and the Data Protection Commission, to ensure regulations “align with national policies while respecting state autonomy”.
Discussing the impact of the court ruling, Olajide Boladuro, director general of the Oyo State Gaming Board, called it a “significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure.”
“By reaffirming that gaming regulation resides within state jurisdictions, the judiciary has empowered states to develop frameworks tailored to their unique cultural and economic landscapes. This is a triumph for constitutional clarity,” Boladuro said.
Prince Imuomuen, representing Edo state, said the ruling offers a “historic opportunity to harmonise regulatory efforts.”
“Through synergy, states can ensure operators have clear guidelines and residents are better protected. FSGRN is committed to fostering partnerships that uphold the highest standards,” Imuomuen said.
