Nigerian Coalition Condemns Federal Gambling Bill as Unconstitutional
The Coalition for Good Governance criticized Nigeria’s gambling bill, labeling the legislative process “a voyage of legislative rascality and lawlessness.” Nelson Ekujumi, coalition leader, stated lawmakers are attempting to illegally and unconstitutionally rewrite gambling law. The opposition adds pressure as the federal government pushes for unified gaming regulations across 36 states.
State Regulators Join Opposition Front
The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria opposes the federal bill. Their resistance highlights conflict scale between national and state interests over gambling jurisdiction. The bill aims to harmonize taxation rates and legislation across Nigerian states.
Ekujumi stated proceeding with the illegal bill would amount to brazen defiance of judicial authority. He described it as a direct attack on the rule of law. Many states view the federal proposal as threatening their regulatory autonomy over gambling operations.
Industry Growth Fuels Regulatory Debate
Nigeria’s iGaming sector faces projected 16% growth, reaching approximately $346,500 in revenue by year-end. Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority links this surge to mobile technology expansion. Major operators including Betway, NairaBET, Bet9ja, 22Bet and 1xBet benefited from fintech integration.
The 2005 National Lottery Act requires comprehensive overhaul, according to industry stakeholders. The new bill expands scope to include online and remote gambling previously outside regulatory frameworks. The proposal introduces technical certification for random number generators, systems, and affiliates.
Bill supporters argue unified regulation could reduce illegal activity and strengthen oversight. The framework may enable Nigeria to sign cooperation agreements with foreign regulators. These tools are expected to help tackle illegal cross-border operations as youth participation and engagement continue rising nationwide.
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