Urgent: Nigeria’s Central Gaming Bill Faces Backlash from States
UPDATE: Nigeria’s proposed Central Gaming Bill is facing fierce opposition from state regulators, who argue that the legislation violates constitutional rights and contradicts a recent Supreme Court ruling. The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN), representing 24 states, has called for an immediate withdrawal of the bill, which seeks to centralize gaming regulation under a new federal authority.
The controversial bill just had its third reading in the National Assembly, sparking urgent debates as state officials express their concerns. The FSGRN claims the bill poses a significant threat to state rights and is fundamentally illegal, citing a 2024 Supreme Court decision that confirmed gaming regulations are reserved exclusively for state governments.
Why This Matters NOW: If passed, the Central Gaming Bill would place all forms of online and remote gaming under the jurisdiction of the Central Gaming Commission, a move that proponents say would streamline regulation and enhance accountability. However, critics say it undermines the constitutional framework that protects state authority over gaming matters.
In its official statement, the FSGRN emphasized that the Supreme Court ruling invalidated the National Lottery Act and clarified that gaming regulation falls under the “residual” list, thereby excluding federal oversight.
“The Central Gaming Bill is, in every material respect, ill-advised and unconstitutional,”
the FSGRN stated, underscoring the legal ramifications of the proposed legislation.
While supporters of the bill argue that federal oversight is necessary to adapt to Nigeria’s evolving gaming landscape—dominated by online platforms—the FSGRN insists that digital formats do not change the constitutional boundaries established by the Supreme Court.
The FSGRN also criticized the bill for creating an artificial distinction between “gaming” and “lottery,” asserting that both should be regulated under the same legal framework. They caution that creating a new regulatory body would only duplicate existing structures and add confusion to the regulatory environment.
As tensions rise, the National Assembly is under pressure to retract the bill and adhere to constitutional principles. The FSGRN warns that allowing federal control over the gambling sector could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to further encroachments on state rights in other sectors.
Next Steps: Should the bill advance through both chambers of the National Assembly, it will ultimately require the President’s approval. If he vetoes the legislation, it would be a significant win for state regulators and advocates for federalism in Nigeria.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds, impacting the future of gaming regulation in Nigeria. The stakes are high, and the implications of this legislation could resonate far beyond the gaming sector.
