The federal government and gaming regulators from 25 states have signed a memorandum of understanding, MoU, to implement a unified regulatory framework for Nigeria’s gaming sector.
The initiative aims to improve oversight of gaming advertisements, enhance cooperation among regulators, and strengthen the industry’s contribution to the national economy.
The signing took place on Monday in Abuja, with the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, ARCON, representing the federal government and the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria, FSGRN, representing the states.
The gaming sector in Nigeria has grown steadily in recent years but remains classified as both critical and high-risk.
Stakeholders have long called for reforms to harmonize regulatory practices across states, addressing overlaps and inefficiencies in the existing framework.
According to ARCON director-general Olalekan Fadolapo, the MoU establishes a coherent regulatory system for advertising in the gaming and lottery sector, ensuring alignment across all participating states.
Fadolapo explained that the agreement allows for streamlining and coordination of advertising regulation, providing clarity on overlapping responsibilities between federal and state authorities.
“We are aware that each state has its own regulatory framework, and so, for the purpose of alignment, for the purpose of bringing everything into one single framework, that is the primary reason why we have this MoU,” he said.
Fadolapo added that the unified framework will benefit operators, stakeholders, and the public while promoting consistent and effective regulation.
He further emphasized the economic benefits of the initiative, noting that a harmonized system prevents fragmented approaches that could hinder the sector.
The framework also addresses the complexities of regulating traditional and digital media, including broadcast, print, out-of-home, and online platforms, while ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions.
Bashir Are, Chairman of FSGRN and CEO of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority, LSLGA, described the partnership as a demonstration of cooperative federalism, aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s policy encouraging collaboration between federal and state institutions.
He highlighted that most gaming operators rely on federal-regulated media platforms, making cooperation essential to maintain industry standards and consumer protection.
Are also noted that similar models of unified regulation exist in other federal systems such as the United States, Canada, and Switzerland, underscoring its potential effectiveness in Nigeria.
The MoU represents a significant step toward a more transparent, coordinated, and economically beneficial gaming sector, with clear regulatory guidelines and stronger collaboration between federal and state agencies.
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