BY Qudirat Hakeem-Apanpa
The Oyo State Government has enjoined gaming and lottery operators to comply with regulatory requirements, fulfil their financial obligations and prioritise the wellbeing of players to promote sustainable growth in the industry.
The government also charged the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board to strengthen its regulatory capacity, improve monitoring and enforcement, and leverage technology to curb illegal operations and prevent revenue leakages.
The government made the call at the 7th Annual Stakeholders’ Forum of the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, which focused on the theme, “Governing for Growth, Regulation, Compliance and Player Care.”
Addressing participants at the forum, the governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Adetunji Babatunde emphasised that the growth of the gaming industry must be balanced with effective regulation, responsible business practices and adequate protection for members of the public.
He noted that a well-regulated gaming industry could contribute to economic development through job creation, investment, innovation and increased government revenue.
However, it stressed that these benefits could only be sustained if operators conducted their businesses within the law and regulators maintained transparent, consistent and effective oversight.
According to the government, the Board must ensure that gaming operators meet their licensing obligations and take appropriate action against unlawful practices within its statutory mandate.
It urged the Board to remain proactive, operators to uphold integrity and compliance, and all stakeholders to work collectively towards building a gaming industry that creates opportunities, contributes to economic development and places the welfare of participants at the centre of its operations.
The government commended the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board for organising the forum and expressed the hope that its deliberations would produce practical measures to strengthen the industry.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the Director General of Gaming and Lottery Commission, Mr. Jide Boladuro pledged his steadfast commitment to the office.
He said the commissions mandate goes beyond its economy values for the state, stressing that it has the interest of all the stakeholders and ensures public trust for unity and progress.
He called on operators to adopt responsible gaming practices, particularly those designed to protect young people and vulnerable individuals from potential harm.
The DG opined that relationship must be guided, sustained and maintained over time to encourage social growth.
Boladuro however urged participants to utilise the opportunity they have to help the populace to see the gaming Industry beyond gaming but as a recreation exercise which should not create enemity and indiscipline among the operators and players, adding that the forum is meant to educate and enlighten every participant and stakeholder.
A participant from Lagos, Mrs. Adetoun Adeyemi explained that gaming has its stipulated law which should not be crossed by both the operators, government and players.
Mr Fikayo Oke, CEO, Gamble Alert, harped on responsible gaming, ensuring player protection and awareness, remained at the forefront of the industry’s growth narrative
He highlighted Gambel Alert’s dedication to research and prevention as an integral part of their overachieving vision for a society free from the chains of gambling addiction
The programme was well attended by Operators, stakeholders, government officials, regulatory bodies in the gaming and Lottery Industry from all parts of Nigeria.
