Lagos reaffirms commitment to combat underage gambling

By Lukman Olabiyi

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to combat underage gambling, emphasising its zero-tolerance policy for such practice.

This was reaffirmed by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA),

during a press conference with key stakeholders in the gaming sector in Lagos.

The Chief Executive Officer of LSLGA and Chairman of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria, Basir Are, emphasised that preventing underage gambling remained a top priority for both the authority and the Lagos State Government.

He also outlined the government’s continued efforts to enforce strict regulations in the sector to safeguard minors from the dangers of gambling.

“Regulation has been tightened up, we don’t joke with underage gambling. If you have been around, you would have seen our advert on BRT buses, on the Blue Line on the Red Line. Even for free Wi-Fi on the train, you have to listen to our campaign in order to get the free Wi-Fi,” he said.

In addition, Are highlighted the upcoming Africa Gaming Expo Lagos 2025, scheduled to take place from February 25 to 27 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites.

With the theme “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech,” the event, according to the government, aims to explore new trends, regulatory frameworks, challenges, and opportunities within the African gaming industry.

Are noted that over 500 delegates had already registered for the event, which will serve as a global meeting point for industry leaders.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will officially open the three-day conference, marking a significant milestone for the region’s gaming sector.

Speaking on the Expo, the Chief Executive Officer of African Gaming Expo, Charles Ekundayo, said about 33 countries are expected at the event, describedthe event as a platform for regulators, operators, and stakeholders in the gaming sector.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers, Sheriff Olaniyan, dismissed claims about operators not remitting their dues.