Nigerian Lawmakers Advance Bill to Regulate Online and Remote Gaming
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has moved forward with a bill aimed at establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for online and remote gaming, including operations extending beyond the country’s borders. Sponsored by Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Kalu and six other lawmakers, the bill has passed its second reading and seeks to replace existing gaming laws with a more structured approach to licensing, taxation, and consumer protection.
Key Objectives of the Bill
The proposed legislation aims to harmonize regulations governing all forms of online and remote gaming within and beyond Nigeria. If enacted, it would repeal the National Lottery Act No. 7 of 2005 and the National Lottery (Amendment) Act No. 6 of 2017, streamlining oversight responsibilities.
According to the bill’s sponsors, its primary objectives include:
- Clarifying regulatory oversight to prevent conflicts between federal and state authorities.
- Enhancing revenue collection through improved taxation and licensing mechanisms.
- Ensuring consumer protection by enforcing responsible gaming practices.
- Aligning Nigeria’s gaming industry with global best practices in transparency and accountability.
Legislative Support and Rationale
Hon. Bamidele Salam, speaking in favor of the bill, emphasized its alignment with a recent Supreme Court ruling on jurisdictional conflicts between the federal and state governments in gaming regulation. He highlighted that standardized taxation and compliance measures could increase government revenue, while stronger oversight would help combat fraud and protect players from gambling addiction.
The bill also establishes a legal framework for gaming regulation within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), ensuring consistency across the country.
If passed into law, the bill would provide regulatory clarity, promote a structured gaming market, and enhance government oversight. With the gaming sector in Nigeria experiencing rapid growth, lawmakers are pushing for reforms that balance economic benefits with consumer protections.
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