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Tag: Lottery

  • Lottery: Lagos sues N’Assembly for defying Supreme Court

    Lottery: Lagos sues N’Assembly for defying Supreme Court

    • State initiates contempt proceedings

    The Lagos State government has approached the Supreme Court for leave to commence contempt proceedings against the National Assembly over its move to pass the Central Gaming Bill, despite a subsisting judgment declaring such legislation unconstitutional.

    In a motion filed on behalf of the Attorney-General of Lagos State by Bode Olanipekun (SAN), the state is seeking the Supreme Court’s leave to initiate judgment enforcement proceedings through the issuance of Form 48, which precedes the commencement of committal or contempt proceedings.

    Form 48 serves as a formal warning to any person or body in contempt of court, and failure to purge the contempt after its issuance may result in committal to prison.

    According to the affidavit filed in support of the motion, Lagos State contended that the National Assembly’s ongoing work on the Central Gaming Bill directly contravenes the Supreme Court’s judgment in SC.1/2008 – Attorney-General of Lagos State & Ors. v. Attorney-General of the Federation & Ors., delivered on November 22, 2024.

    The state argued that clauses 7 and 21 to 64 of the proposed Bill relate entirely to lottery and gaming, subjects which the Supreme Court had already ruled fall outside the legislative competence of the National Assembly.

    It noted that these provisions effectively replicate those contained in the now-nullified National Lottery Act, which was struck down by the Supreme Court in the same 2024 judgment.

    Lagos further submitted that both the nullified National Lottery Act and the Central Gaming Bill define “lottery” and “online gaming” in identical terms as any game, scheme, arrangement, system, plan, or promotional competition based on chance, skill and chance, or sporting outcomes, which requires a licence to operate.

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    The affidavit stated that despite the apex court’s 2024 ruling invalidating the National Lottery Act, Clause 62 of the Central Gaming Bill introduces “savings provisions” intended to revalidate actions taken under the voided law, thereby amounting to a direct defiance of the Supreme Court’s authority.

    Lagos also pointed out that since the Supreme Court delivered its judgment, neither the Exclusive nor Concurrent Legislative Lists under the Second Schedule to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) have been altered to include lottery or gaming — further confirming that the National Assembly has no power to legislate on the matter.

    The 2024 Supreme Court judgment had categorically held that lottery and gaming cannot be regulated by any Act of the National Assembly, as these subjects are not listed under the constitutional Legislative Lists.

    The apex court rejected the National Assembly’s argument that its power derived from Item 62 of the Exclusive Legislative List, which covers “trade and commerce,” or that the electronic and interstate character of gaming brought it within federal jurisdiction.

    By returning to the Supreme Court, Lagos State is now seeking to enforce that ruling through contempt proceedings.

  • Why Lotteries Are Nigeria’s Favorite Game: Exploring the Nation’s Lottery Craze

    Why Lotteries Are Nigeria’s Favorite Game: Exploring the Nation’s Lottery Craze

    Lotteries have become an integral part of Nigeria’s social and economic fabric, captivating millions across the country. Their popularity is driven by a unique blend of historical, cultural, and economic factors that have shaped the lottery industry in Nigeria. To understand why lotteries are so widely embraced, it’s essential to explore these dynamics and highlight some of the top online lotteries that have gained prominence in recent years.

    What Makes Lotteries So Popular in Nigeria?

    Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, naturally has a vast audience for lottery games. The appeal of lotteries is multifaceted. Economically, Nigeria faces significant challenges, including high poverty rates and unemployment. In such an environment, lotteries offer a glimmer of hope — a chance to improve one’s financial situation dramatically with a relatively small investment. This hope is a powerful motivator for many Nigerians who see the lottery as a potential path out of hardship.

    Culturally, lotteries have become a social phenomenon where participation is widespread and often communal. The lottery is not just about individual gain but also about sharing good fortune with family and friends, which resonates deeply with the communal values prevalent in Nigerian society. Moreover, the lottery industry in Nigeria is regulated by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), which ensures that many lottery operators are licensed and operate transparently, helping to build trust among players.

    The rise of internet accessibility and mobile technology has further accelerated the popularity of lotteries by making them more accessible. Online platforms now allow Nigerians to participate in both local and international lotteries conveniently, broadening the scope and appeal of lottery games.

    Top Online Lotteries in Nigeria

    Several lottery companies have established themselves as leaders in Nigeria’s lottery market, offering a variety of games with attractive prizes and user-friendly platforms. Here are some of the most important lotteries available:

    Baba Ijebu Lotto (Premier Lotto)

    One of the oldest and most trusted lotteries in Nigeria, Baba Ijebu is famous for its daily draws and large prize pools. It enjoys widespread popularity due to its long-standing presence and reliability.

    GG Lotto Nigeria

    GG Lotto Nigeria has rapidly gained prominence with a range of engaging games. Their flagship games include:

    GG World Million: Offers a minimum guaranteed jackpot of $1,000,000 (approximately ₦412 million), with draws twice a week.

    GG World Keno: A high-frequency game with draws every four minutes and jackpots up to ₦100 million.

    GG World Pick3 and Pick4: Frequent draws with good odds of winning smaller prizes.

    GG World Raffle: Known as one of the fairest games, every draw guarantees a first prize winner, which can range from cash to valuable items like cars or houses.

    GG World X: A high-stakes lottery with a $10 million jackpot.

    These games appeal to a broad audience by offering a variety of prize tiers and frequent opportunities to win, maintaining player engagement.

    24Lottos

    24Lottos is recognized as one of the best online lottery platforms in Nigeria and globally. Licensed by the NLRC, it offers players the ability to buy single-line tickets for international lotteries, a feature that sets it apart from many other operators. The company uses a messenger service to purchase tickets on behalf of players, providing confirmation and security for every purchase.

    International Lotteries Available on LottoPark

    In addition to local options, Nigerian players can access a wide selection of international lotteries through platforms like LottoPark. LottoPark offers tickets for some of the world’s biggest lotteries, including the Eurojackpot, Powerball, Mega Sena from Brazil, OZ Lotto from Australia, and the British Thunderball. This platform allows players to conveniently purchase lottery tickets online 24/7, with representatives buying physical tickets locally on their behalf, ensuring security and transparency. This access to global lotteries expands the opportunities for Nigerian players to try their luck beyond national borders.

    Other Notable Lotteries

    Other lottery operators such as Wesco Pools, Lottery Limited, Elot.NG (Chenjo Limited), and Tunde Tunapah Lotto contribute to Nigeria’s vibrant lottery scene, each offering unique games and services tailored to local preferences.

    TIP: Learn more about the top online lotteries in Nigeria at https://www.african-lotto.com/lotteries/nigeria/

    The Broader Impact of Lotteries in Nigeria

    Lotteries in Nigeria are more than just games of chance; they have become significant economic and social drivers. The industry provides employment opportunities and generates revenue that can be used for public projects. For many Nigerians, lottery winnings have been a source of financial relief and a means to support their families and communities.

    Moreover, the lottery fosters a spirit of hope and aspiration. Despite the odds, the possibility of winning life-changing sums encourages many to dream bigger and work toward better futures. This psychological benefit is a key reason why lotteries remain deeply popular despite the inherent risks.

    Conclusion

    The popularity of lotteries in Nigeria reflects the country’s demographic realities, economic challenges, and cultural values. With a well-regulated market and the rise of online platforms, Nigerians have access to some of the top online lotteries, including Baba Ijebu Lotto, GG Lotto Nigeria, and 24Lottos, among others. Additionally, international platforms like LottoPark provide access to the world’s biggest lotteries, broadening the horizons for Nigerian players.

    While the lottery is not a guaranteed path to wealth, it continues to serve as a beacon of hope and possibility for millions of Nigerians, embodying their dreams of financial upliftment and a better life.

  • Lottery industry boosts GDP with N200b

    Lottery industry boosts GDP with N200b

    Nigeria’s lottery industry contributed over N200 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) last year, according to House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

    The announcement was made in Abuja during the launch of an autobiography entitled: Mr. Lottery: The Story of Lanre Gbajabiamila @ 60, authored by the Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila.

    Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the speaker lauded the achievements of the lottery sector under Gbajabiamila’s leadership.

    “Lanre Gbajabiamila has not only redefined the lottery industry but has made significant contributions to national development. His dedication to innovation and transparency has elevated this sector from obscurity to being a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy,” Kalu said.

    The event was a celebration of Gbajabiamila’s personal and professional journey. The book launch attracted industry stakeholders, lawmakers, and dignitaries who praised his transformative impact on the lottery sector.

    Kalu described Gbajabiamila’s career as a testament to resilience, visionary leadership, and the ability to navigate challenges.

    “The story of Lanre Gbajabiamila is one of determination and innovation, showing us that the lottery is not just about chance but about creating opportunities and empowering communities,” he added.

    Under Gbajabiamila’s stewardship, the NLRC implemented reforms that significantly boosted revenue generation, taking internal revenue from N200 million to billions of naira annually.

    According to Kalu, his tenure also saw the promotion of responsible gambling and the introduction of modern technologies in lottery operations.

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    “Gbajabiamila’s biography, Mr. Lottery, offers a detailed account of his life, career, and the transformation of the gaming industry in Nigeria. The book explores his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in an industry previously riddled with inefficiencies”, Kalu noted.

    Reflecting on the process of writing the book, Gbajabiamila said, “I wondered if people would want to read about me, but I realized my story is intertwined with the growth of an industry that holds immense potential for our nation. This book is not just my story—it’s about the opportunities we can create together.”

    The book also highlights his commitment to philanthropy, with proceeds dedicated to Gamble Alert and GamblePause, two initiatives that promote responsible gambling and support individuals dealing with addiction.

    As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy, stakeholders at the event emphasized the untapped potential of the lottery industry.

    Gbajabiamila called on policymakers and investors to recognize the sector’s capacity to generate sustainable revenue and create jobs.

    The book reviewer, Charles Imole, noted that the biography, described as a mix of humour, inspiration, and insightful commentary, also sheds light on the challenges Gbajabiamila faced in implementing reforms.

    He said that it portrays him as a resilient leader who overcame resistance and bureaucracy to establish a thriving, transparent industry.

    Gbajabiamila expressed his gratitude to his family, colleagues, and supporters who played pivotal roles in his journey.

     “Mr. Lottery is more than a book; it’s a reflection of the power of collaboration and a call to action for all Nigerians to believe in the potential of our industries,” Gbajabiamila said.

    He said Nigeria continues its journey toward economic diversification; the lottery sector stands out as a shining example of how innovation and leadership can unlock hidden potential.

  • 60 million Nigerians engage in gambling daily — Lottery DG

    60 million Nigerians engage in gambling daily — Lottery DG

    The Director-General of the Cross River State Lottery and Gaming Agency, Michael Eja, has revealed that approximately 60 million Nigerians engage in gambling daily.

    Eja made this known during the launch of a new sports betting platform, Woskybet, in Abuja on Friday.

    He noted that the gambling industry in Nigeria is a booming one currently valued between N500 billion and N600 billion.

    Eja noted that despite the industry’s rapid growth, 90 per cent of the market’s potential remains untapped.

    He said that Lagos State alone generated $243 million from the betting industry last year.

    Eja said: “The betting industry is worth about $1 billion in Africa. Lagos State alone generated $243 million in revenue last year.

    “Gambling is becoming increasingly popular, and more people are beginning to understand its essence.”

    He highlighted the benefits of the industry to include its contributions to wealth redistribution, job creation and revenue for government.

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    “The gaming industry sells hope, aids in wealth redistribution and creates jobs in Nigeria.

    “Over time, we will see an increase in the revenue that the gambling sector contributes to nation building,” he added.

    The Director of Operations for Woskybet, Nurudeen Idrees, emphasised the positive impact of the gambling industry on job creation, particularly for Nigerian youths.

    He described gambling as a game of luck in which players may win or lose, and reassured customers about the security of their winnings.

    He said: “In terms of payment, I want to reassure our customers and the public that their money is 100% guaranteed when they win, as their wins are their rights.

    He further expressed Woskybet’s commitment to providing a safe, secure and exciting betting experience for sports enthusiasts in Nigeria.

  • Transforming Nigeria’s lottery industry

    Transforming Nigeria’s lottery industry

    The Nigerian lottery and gaming industry is passing through a growth phase defined by creativity and innovation. The sector has earned domestic and global recognitions due to the excellent regulations and transformative policies initiated by the Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila. Assistant Business Editor, COLLINS NWEZE, reports.

    The use of technology and innovation in the lottery and gaming industry has brought the business closer to the people and made patronage seamless.

    The industry has become popular in Nigeria, with over 65 million young and old Nigerians actively engaged in it, spending at least $15 daily on the average.

    Recent statistics even claimed that more than 50 per cent of the country’s adult population engages in sports betting.

    This has led to a proliferation of over 100 betting sites in the country.

    The industry is representing a significant segment of the economy, creating jobs and supporting growth.

    The growth in the industry is driven by sound policies and innovative leadership that has received domestic and global acknowledgements.

    At a glamorous ceremony at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) in London, 2024, the Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila, was not just a participant but the star of the show.

    His induction into the Africa Gaming Hall of Fame with an Award of Excellence was a testament to his dedication, innovation, and leadership in the transformation of the lottery and gaming industry in Africa, particularly in Nigeria.

    Gbajabiamila, affectionately known as ‘Mr. Lottery’, has been at the forefront of regulatory excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s lottery sector since his appointment.

    Under his stewardship, the NLRC has witnessed unprecedented growth and reforms aligning with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to elevate the lottery business to new heights. His efforts have not only revitalised the industry but have also set a benchmark for gaming regulation in Africa.

    Deepening global standards, partnerships

    The hallmark of Gbajabiamila’s tenure has been his visionary approach to embracing international standards and fostering global partnerships. The transformation of the NLRC’s bi-yearly gaming conference, which he pioneered in 2021 from a national to an international event, underlines his commitment to expanding Nigeria’s gaming industry on the global stage.

    Its last year’s conference in Lagos was a melting pot of experts, operators, and investors from around the world, demonstrating Nigeria’s burgeoning influence in the global gaming industry.

    This elevation of the gaming conference to international status has been a strategic move to attract foreign investment, increase the inflow of resources to Nigeria, and provide a platform for Nigerian gaming industry leaders to network with international giants. Gbajabiamila’s leadership has not only opened new revenue streams for the country but also enhanced the gaming experience for Nigerians, ensuring more robust winnings and a more regulated environment.

    During the ICE London Conference, Mr. Gbajabiamila also participated in a pivotal round table discussion themed “Gaming regulations in Africa: the journey so far, and what the future holds.” Alongside other esteemed gaming experts, he shared insights into the regulatory landscape of the industry, emphasising the importance of fostering local content policies and partnerships to mitigate capital flight from African countries.

    His advocacy for the implementation and deployment of a Central Monitoring System by his Commission underscores his commitment to enhancing regulatory oversight and efficiency in Nigeria’s gaming sector.

    Earlier, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)had at a grand event, where the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nosun Tijani, was represented, conferred on ‘Mr. Lottery’ a Special Recognition Award.

    Presenting the award, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Farouk Yusuf Yabo, who stood in for the minister, commended the remarkable contributions of the lottery boss to data protection.

    Eulogising Gbajabiamila, the Minister said: “ Your steadfast support and contributions to the National Data Protection Commission have not gone unnoticed.Your collaboration has been instrumental in furthering the goals of both commissions. “

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    The recognitions from the NDPC and the African Gaming Hall of Fame not only highlight the personal accomplishments but also casts a spotlight on the essential elements of effective leadership, cooperation, and unwavering commitment in propelling the gaming industry.

    As the gaming landscape in Nigeria continues to mature, there’s no gain saying that the efforts and achievements of individuals like Gbajabiamila stand as a beacon for industry leaders, demonstrating the significant influence of dedication and high standards across Africa.

    Before ascending to the pinnacle of the NLRC, Gbajabiamila had left significant footprints in the gaming industry, including a remarkable stint at the National Sports Lottery His pioneering work on the Essnet Lottery Operating System, managing five million lottery transactions weekly, showcases his blend of technical expertise and visionary leadership.

    His reappointment in 2022 by former President Muhammadu Buhari for a final term of four years was a nod to his impactful leadership and the profound strides made under his guidance. The Africa Gaming Hall of Fame Award of Excellence presented by Kate Chambers at ICE 2024 is not just an accolade for Gbajabiamila but  also a spotlight on Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global gaming and lottery industry.

    As Gbajabiamila continues to chart a progressive course for Nigeria’s gaming sector, his story is a beacon of excellence, innovation, and transformative leadership. It underscores the potential of the gaming industry to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic diversification and growth, marking a new era of prosperity and international recognition for the country’s gaming industry.

  • 65 million Nigerians engage in online betting, lottery trust fund reveals

    65 million Nigerians engage in online betting, lottery trust fund reveals

    Data from the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) indicates that around 65 million Nigerians engage in regular betting activities, with an average daily expenditure of $15 per person.

    This comes after it was revealed that 14 million bets and payments are made online in the nation every day.

    The NLTF’s executive secretary, Bello Maigari, said this yesterday during the second edition of the biannual national gaming conference, which was held in Lagos.

    He said Nigerians spend billions of dollars on it each year, despite economic hardship.

    “Currently, there are over 65 million Nigerians actively engaging in this activity, spending $15 on average every day. It is on record, that each day, 14 million bets are taken and payments are made online in our country.

    “It is expected to experience an annual growth rate of nearly 10 per cent to reach more than $366 million by 2027,” he said.

    Noting the exponential rise of the internet gambling industry, Maigari said: “As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the global online market was estimated to be worth over $50 billion, and it has continued to grow significantly since then.

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    He noted: “In Nigeria, the online betting sector has seen exponential growth, with millions of citizens engaging in various forms of online gaming and betting.”

    “With a population of over 200 million people and the largest betting market in Africa, our country is making giant strides in the world of online sports betting.”

    He therefore called on the Federal Government to create a framework that can encourage the betting industry to contribute taxes in the country.

    He said: “Moreover, leveraging the gaming and betting industry as a tax contributor can help create a level playing field for both local and international operators.”

  • Fed Govt eyes N2b from gaming, lottery

    Fed Govt eyes N2b from gaming, lottery

    Efforts are underway to support the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) to generate over N2 billion yearly as revenue from licences and others from businesses in the lottery and gaming sector.

    The Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr Zaphaniah Jisalo, who spoke in Lagos yesterday, said the aim was to help the government raise more money to finance infrastructure development and boost   growth.

    Speaking during the yearly gaming conference of the NLRC which had: ‘Innovation and disruptions: Core strategies for success,’ as theme, the minister said the industry  has presented  numerous benefits to the country, including generating millions of  jobs and encouraging entrepreneurship development.

    According to him, the gaming industry has become a significant driver of the country’s economy.

    He said both the federal and state governments were generating improved revenue through the industry, adding that the challenge was enforcing reasonable fee-sharing structure agreed upon by the regulators  without stakeholders seeing such as  multiple permits as it is in the case between the NLRC and some state government gaming regulatory authorities in recent times.

    He said: “We all know that Nigeria’s gaming industry has evolved tremendously as the world is now a Global Village. In light of this, I am using this occasion to address the issue of the dichotomy of regulators. Please note that the Federal Ministry of Special Duties is aware that the principal cause of friction between the federal and state regulators is revenue.’’

    However, we believe that all concerned can find mutual common ground for the good of stakeholders to enhance peace, harmony and progress. Therefore, the ministry suggests a ‘Shared-Value’ engagement to reach an amicable resolution of issues in the gaming sector rather than the ‘Jurisdictional Protection’ approach as the case is now.”

    The Director-General, NLRC, Lanre Gbajabiamila, said the  gaming market was experiencing progressive evolution but that there was a need to better implement the central monitoring system(CMS) to position the country’s gaming industry for better performance and enhanced revenue generation.

    He said: “The gaming sector, we believe, holds the key to economic growth and is a potent tool for addressing the pressing issues of unemployment and low per capita income. Nigeria, our beloved nation, is teeming with untapped potential, and its most precious resource is our population. Our aspirations are firmly grounded in the power of innovation within the gaming industry, as it provides a gateway to create employment opportunities and, inevitably, wealth creation.”

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    He said the CMS would enable the Commission and its sister agency, the National Lottery Trust Fund, to perform maximally in their regulatory functions and provision of lottery good causes to Nigeria.

    He said the commission was determined to block leakages in the gaming industry as well as eliminate discrepancies often observed from the books of some operators to enable the government to earn more revenue from the industry.

    “The dynamism of gaming has ushered in the advent of technology, creating a digital era. It has fundamentally reshaped how we perceive and engage in the gaming industry. This transformation has brought challenges and opportunities, making it increasingly complex for any state to assert complete regulatory control, especially in light of the growing prevalence of online and remote gaming operators. Amidst this transformation, the commitment to addressing the emerging challenges remains unwavering. In light of this, regulatory bodies and stakeholders must adapt to this new landscape to ensure the continued integrity and security of the gaming industry. I would like to broach a subject, which is the “Know Your Customer” (KYC) drive. The KYC is of utmost importance as we collectively fight against terrorism financing and money laundering. It is our shared responsibility to maintain a robust and effective KYC system, not only for the betterment of the gaming industry but for the greater good of our nation’s security and financial integrity. In the world of lotteries and gaming, ensuring compliance with KYC regulations is paramount. KYC procedures are not merely a bureaucratic requirement; they are a crucial component of maintaining the integrity and security of the industry,” he said.

    On the importance of the conference, he noted: “As we convene here today, our collective mission stands two-fold. Firstly, we endeavour to unearth strategies for success that resonate with the dynamic gaming landscape. Yet, we do not limit our focus here. We also explore the vast potential for innovation to elevate the gaming sector to unprecedented heights. We aim to create new growth opportunities and establish a dynamic and sustainable industry. The solutions and strategies that emerge from this gathering will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development, thereby shaping the future of the gaming sector in Nigeria.”

    He said to reposition the gaming industry for better performance, there was need to collaborate.

  • Fed Govt eyes 10m jobs from lottery, gaming industry

    Fed Govt eyes 10m jobs from lottery, gaming industry

    • Gbajabiamila donates laptops, tablets, educational materials to pupils

    The Federal Government is eyeing over 10 million jobs in the lottery and gaming industry, the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Jisalo, said on Saturday.

    The minister, who described the lottery as a “wealth generator”, pledged the government’s commitment to improving the industry in order to make it more beneficial to Nigerians and boost government revenue.

    Jisalo spoke at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos during the flag-off of the second phase of the school empowerment programme of the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, tagged: “Back to School Jump Start Project.”

    The programme, in partnership with the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), featured Gbajabiamila’s donation of e-learning equipment, including laptops, android tablets, stationeries, and sanitation material to hundreds of pupils of 46 schools in the Surulere Federal Constituency.

    The minister, who was represented by NLTF’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Bello Maigari, hailed the trust fund for backing the “well-conceived” idea to help schools equip students with modern educational materials to enable achieve academic excellence and uplift education to global standard.

    Jisalo said: “The funding of the implementation of the second phase of this programme by the National Lottery Trust Fund is meant to build on the successes of the first phase. This has tremendously improved the standard of learning and provided an environment conducive for learning in public schools across Surulere Federal Constituency.

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    “It is important for the management of the benefiting public schools to ensure that the provision of these instructional and educational materials is judiciously utilised to achieve the desired goal of a better standard of learning and an environment that is conducive for learning.

    “Lottery is a wealth generator. The industry has generated quite a large number of jobs for Nigerians in the last few years, a number that is likely to grow to over 10 million due to the population and size of the Nigerian economy.

    “Though it is not yet a reality, we are doing everything humanly possible to revitalise this industry which holds a great promise for Nigeria in raising enormous revenues and creating job opportunities for youths and help actualise the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government’s Renewed Hope agenda.

    “I am delighted to inform you that the government will provide the National Lottery Trust Fund and other relevant agencies the necessary support to improve all policy frameworks required to change the face of the lottery and gaming industry in the country by significantly increasing lottery revenue to the government in a bid to make lottery more productive and beneficial to Nigerians.

    “Accordingly, all persons and organisations licensed to engage in national lottery business should be ready to meet their statutory obligations to avoid being sanctioned.

    “Consequently, the government is committed to ensuring that returns obtainable from other non-oil sources of revenues are maximised, hence lottery is one of such alternative revenue sources that this government has identified and is determined to make more productive and sustainable.

    “As the sector becomes firmly established, it is our expectation that lottery will be included in the strategic plans of the nation.”

    Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Fuad Kayode-Laguda, a nominated candidate to replace the former House of Representatives Speaker, urged the pupils and their schools to make good use of the materials.

    He said: “It gives me great pleasure that the back-to-school programme has achieved a lot because all the schools reached out to last year put into good use all the equipment given to them.”

    Head of the initiative’s planning committee, Adaku Apugo, said the programme was designed to address the vulnerabilities of the public education system laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    He said this had impacted the lives of 46 schools in the constituency, though the challenges remained.

    “The Jump Start project phase II implementation has identified the following four strategic priority areas to make this intervention a success:

    •Classroom infrastructure;

    •Sanitary facilities;

    •Stationery; and

    •The deployment of a national Learning Management Systems (LMS) for e-learning.

    “These priority areas constitute a comprehensive hierarchy of the challenges faced by the public educational system and the solutions that prepare us for the future,” Apugo added. ·    

  • NiajaLottery  introduces block chain lottery

    International Lottery and Gaming Limited (ILGL), trade-named NaijaLottery, has introduced Quanta,  licensed block chain lottery, as its  new investor,  Charbel Saadeh, Managing Director of Naija Lottery, has said.

    According to Saadeh, the    deal will promote  synergy of traditional and block chain lottery.

    He said ILGL is one of the largest gaming companies in Nigeria, and has been granted a Grade A National License from the National Lottery Regulatory Commission to offer lottery games throughout Nigeria.

    Under the partnership,   Quanta and ILGL will apply block chain technology to revitalize the traditional lottery, and to act as a platform to further strengthen growth in African market.

    He said the  partnership is a major development in the penetration of block chain technology into traditional business models.

    Saadeh said NaijaLotteryTM sells National Lottery tickets in every city and state, offering large prizes to winners. The company is committed to implementing the highest international standards of responsible gaming, protecting minors and discouraging addictive playing. ILGL employs best-in-class technology and related services.

    He said: “ Quanta is the first fully licensed block chain lottery in the world. Developed on the breakthrough Ethereum block chain technology, Quanta transforms conventional lotteries for the better, revolutionizing the gaming industry. Its block chain-based lottery games are fully certified to ensure utmost trust and transparency for the players and the regulators.

  • Ondo pledges better atmosphere for lottery, pool operators

    The Ondo state government has promised to provide conducive atmosphere for lottery, pool and sports betting operators in the state to thrive.

    The pledge was an outcome of a three-day familiarization meeting with promoters  of sports betting, lottery and pool business operators in the state.

    This is aimed at providing a better atmosphere for the businesses to thrive.

    The chairman of the state pools betting and lotteries board, Mr. Akinroluyo Olajide Dickson, while addressing the company representatives, said the government of Ondo state has the growth and progress of their businesses in topmost priority, hence the need for the meeting.

    He further noted that the state government had discovered that some promoters are operating illegally without proper regulations in the state, and has decided to put a stop to that.

    Akinroluyo promised to meet other business operators on the signage issue.

    He also hinted on a possible review of state laws and payable charges on the business, in order to meet up with present day realities, noting that the regulations presently used are old and obsolete.

    He however assured the business representatives that government will be very modest and considerate in whatever adjustments that will be done.

    The businessmen in attendance thanked Akinroluyo  for his efforts at relating with and carrying the companies along in the policies of the government, while pledging their total support and cooperation.