1 week ago
23
The House of Representatives, has at a second reading stage, passed a Bill seeking to create a comprehensive and harmonised regulatory framework for the operation of all forms of online and remote gaming.
The proposed legislation is 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.
Sponsored by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu and six others, it make provisions for the Conduct of Gaming in the Federal Capital Territory, and enhance Revenue Generation for the Federation and for Related Matters.
Leading the debate on its general principles on Thursday, Hon. Bamidele Salam informed his colleagues that the move aligns with the recent decision of the Supreme Court on the conflict of jurisdiction between the Federal Government and the states regarding the regulation of gaming.
He recalled that the Court clarified that gaming, including lotteries and betting, falls within the legislative competence of states except where it pertains to matters within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Government, such as cross-border or international gaming operations.
“This will ensure clarity in regulatory oversight, prevent jurisdictional conflicts, and promote a well-structured gaming industry that aligns with global best practices”, he said, adding that the Supreme Court ruling underscores the need for a comprehensive legal framework that respects the constitutional division of powers while addressing the realities of modern gaming.
English (US) ·