The Enugu State Gaming Commission has launched a license revalidation exercise to combat the activities of illegal lottery operators and restore integrity to the state’s gaming and lottery sector.
This move follows calls from industry stakeholders for improved regulation to eliminate fraud and increase public trust in the sector.
Speaking at a one-day Gaming Stakeholders Engagement Forum in Enugu, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prince Arinze Arum, explained that the revalidation exercise is aimed at addressing regulatory gaps and reinforcing the system.
He also announced a temporary suspension of new licenses to ensure that existing operators comply with the required standards.
“We are halting all new license issuances and revalidations temporarily. This is to ensure fairness, uphold integrity, and demonstrate a zero-tolerance approach to illegal operators in the state,” Arum said.
Arum further assured that the commission is working towards establishing a sustainable and transparent environment for regulated gaming, with the use of advanced technology for monitoring, enforcement, and management.
These efforts, he noted, will improve efficiency and accountability across the sector.
“State-of-the-art technology is being deployed to monitor all gaming and lottery activities, ensuring uniformity and transparency,” he said
The commission also engaged stakeholders to identify weaknesses, improve processes, and eliminate unlicensed operators.
The focus is on tightening regulatory gaps, enhancing data collection, and addressing the activities of illegal operators.
Participants at the forum unanimously agreed on the need to adopt global best practices to foster the sector’s growth.
They emphasized that the gaming industry, with its potential to generate substantial revenue, could significantly boost the state’s economy and create employment opportunities for the youth.
Mr. Arinze Okeani, a representative from BetKing Lotto, praised the state government for revitalizing the Gaming and Lottery Commission but called for stronger regulations to curb exploitation by fraudulent operators.
“The commission should implement effective strategies to harmonize operations and identify rogue operators. Those found guilty must face prosecution to serve as a deterrent,” Okeani said.
Similarly, Darlington Umezurike of Premier Lotto highlighted the importance of promptly honoring winning claims to maintain public trust.
“Trust and reliability are the foundation of the gaming industry. It’s vital that all stakeholders ensure winnings are paid out promptly to build confidence and sustain growth,” Umezurike stated.
Through these efforts, Enugu State Government aims to transform the gaming and lottery sector into a model of fairness, transparency, and economic growth.
