Nigerian Stakeholders Urge Stronger Responsible Gaming Measures
A multi-stakeholder symposium in Lagos has brought renewed attention to the public health risks of gambling in Nigeria, with regulators, medical professionals, and industry operators calling for a coordinated approach to promote responsible gaming as a condition for sustainable growth.
Public Health at the Centre of Responsible Gaming Push
The 2025 Responsible Gaming Symposium, hosted in Lagos by non-profit organisation Gamble Alert, gathered key figures from across the gambling, public health, and regulatory landscapes to address the social consequences of gambling. The event, themed “Building a Sustainable Industry Through Responsible Gaming Practice,” placed a strong focus on emerging mental health concerns linked to gambling.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, represented at the event by Dr. Tolu Ajomale from the Ministry of Health, welcomed the initiative, describing the timing of the advocacy as both necessary and relevant. While acknowledging that gambling remains legal, the state expressed concern over the growing mental health implications, particularly among younger demographics.
The health ministry also pointed to a lack of coordination between stakeholders — including operators, regulators, and treatment providers — as a barrier to accurately tracking the scale of gambling-related harm.
Gamble Alert Advocates for a Shared Model of Responsibility
Fisayo Oke, CEO of Gamble Alert and convener of the symposium, underscored that responsible gaming must be viewed as a foundational requirement for the industry, not a voluntary add-on. According to Oke, the aim of the event was to promote an evidence-based, cross-sector approach to safer gambling practices.
Beyond advocacy, the organisation is also engaged in research and direct support for individuals experiencing gambling disorders. Oke emphasised that the responsibility for fostering a safe gambling environment must be shared among all parties — from operators and regulators to the players themselves, who need to understand the risks of treating gambling as a source of income.
Regulatory Gaps Fuel Addiction Risks in Nigerian States
One of the event’s key discussions focused on the patchy regulatory environment across Nigerian states. Boladuro Olajide, Chairman and Director-General of the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, acknowledged the growing problem of youth addiction, especially in jurisdictions without clear regulatory systems.
He noted that Oyo State is among the few with a legally enforceable gaming framework. The state updated its law in 2023 to strengthen oversight, improve licensing standards, and ensure better compliance among operators — measures that are intended to counter rising social risks linked to gambling.
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