Bill to Regulate Gaming Operations Passes Second Reading

By Gloria Essien, Abuja

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to create a comprehensive and harmonised regulatory framework for the operation of online businesses and remote gaming that transcend state boundaries and extend beyond Nigeria's borders.

The proposed legislation titled, "Bill for an Act to Repeal the National Lottery Act No. 7 of 2005 and the National Lottery (Amendment) Act No. 6 of 2017, and to Enact the Central Gaming Bill to Regulate the Operation and Business of all forms of Online and Remote Gaming Across the Geographical Boundaries of the Federating Units and beyond the Borders of Nigeria, Provide for the Conduct of Gaming in the Federal Capital Territory, and enhance Revenue Generation for the Federation and for Related Matters," was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Benjamin Kalu and six other lawmakers.

Part I (Clauses 1-6):

Establishes the Central Gaming Commission and its Governing Board, detailing composition, tenure, and powers.

Part II (Clause 7):

Defines functions and powers of the Commission including licensing, monitoring, enforcement, and promoting responsible gaming.

Part III (Clauses 8-12):

Provides for appointment of Director-General, Secretary, and staff with conditions of service.

Part IV (Clauses 13-20):

Contains financial provisions including funding sources, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and accountability measures.

Part V (Clauses 21-48):

Regulates online/remote gaming operations, establishes licensing framework, and mandates cybersecurity measures through a National Computer Emergency Response Team Platform.

Part VI (Clauses 49-51):

Provides for offences and penalties related to illegal gaming operations.

Part VII (Clauses 52-53):

Grants Commission authority to regulate gaming in Federal Capital Territory.

Part VIII (Clauses 54-64):

Includes miscellaneous provisions and repeals existing National Lottery Acts.

• Resolve jurisdictional conflicts between federal and state authorities

• Streamline taxation and licensing for improved revenue

• Promote responsible gaming and consumer protection

• Establish regulatory certainty for investors

The Bill was put to voice vote by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and passed. It now moves to committee stage for further consideration.

Rep. Salam emphasized: "This will ensure clarity in regulatory oversight, prevent jurisdictional conflicts, and promote a well-structured gaming industry that aligns with global best practices."