The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has officially inaugurated the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office and called on lottery and gaming operators to submit applications for licences to operate within the territory.
Mr Lanre Gbajabiamila, Director-General of the new office, made the announcement during a press conference held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Gbajabiamila explained that the establishment of the office was pursuant to a directive from the Minister of the FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, aimed at ensuring proper regulation and oversight of the gaming sector within the territory.
He noted that the directive aligns with a recent Supreme Court ruling which confirmed the FCT Administration’s legal authority to regulate lottery and gaming activities within its jurisdiction.
The Director-General assured stakeholders of a stable regulatory environment, emphasising the office’s commitment to transparency, continuity, and adherence to global best practices.
According to Gbajabiamila, the initiative seeks to harness the economic potential of the gaming industry, enhance its reputation, and boost internally generated revenue for the FCT.
He outlined the office’s key priorities, which include collaborating with the Office of the FCT Minister and the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) to ensure effective regulatory oversight and revenue remittance.
Gbajabiamila further stated that establishing a robust and transparent regulatory framework, as well as fostering an enabling environment for investment and responsible gaming, are fundamental goals. These efforts aim to ensure fairness, build investor confidence, and promote regulatory excellence.
He reassured that all existing licences issued by the now-defunct National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) remain valid for their duration and will be recognised under the new FCT regulatory framework.
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“All licensed operators will continue their activities under the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office (FCT-LRO) without disruption,” he confirmed.
He urged stakeholders to engage constructively with the office during this transition period.
Gbajabiamila also invited new investors and prospective operators to apply for FCT gaming licences, promising a transparent and investor-friendly licensing process.
He added that the initiative has the full support of the FCT Minister and is expected to make a significant contribution to the territory’s economic growth and governance standards.
“We appeal to all stakeholders for their cooperation, compliance, and support as we work towards building a sustainable and inclusive gaming industry in the FCT,” he concluded.
Mr Michael Ango, Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Internal Revenue Service, explained that the collaboration with the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office aims to enhance revenue generation for the territory.
Ango said the initiative, which aligns with the vision of the FCT Minister, is part of efforts to position Abuja as a global capital city.
“As Abuja increasingly becomes a tourist destination attracting visitors from around the world, leisure activities such as gaming have great potential to attract investment to the FCT,” he said.
He emphasised that the initiative will benefit residents by creating employment opportunities, stimulating economic activity, and increasing internally generated revenue.
“This collaboration ultimately serves the best interests of the people and residents of Abuja,” Ango concluded.
