Nelson Utip
Michael Eja, The Director-General of the Cross River State Lotteries and Games has stated that the newly introduced reciprocity licensing framework of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) will boost the revenue of the state government and boost investors confidence in Nigeria gaming sector.
He disclosed this while interacting with Newsmen in Lagos. He stated that the federation, which currently has 25 member states, designed the reciprocity system to remove duplication of licensing requirements, improve regulatory efficiency, and foster a unified investment climate for operators.
Eja further stated under the new framework, any license issued must be jointly endorsed by all member states so as to allow gaming operators run businesses smoothly across the Nation without applying for multiple licenses in different jurisdictions.
He said that the revenue-sharing arrangement ensures that all states will benefit financially while still retaining their powers of regulation, monitoring, and enforcement under state laws.
“The real innovation here is in the revenue model,” he stated. “By harmonising licensing and sharing revenues, states will see a measurable increase in internally generated revenue (IGR) while providing clarity and certainty to investors.” He said.
The DG observed that the framework has the potential to transform the gaming sector into a multi-billion-naira revenue spinner for sub-national governments, judging from the industry’s rapid growth and strong investor appetite.
The DG called on State Governors, Attorneys-general, and Lawmakers at both the state and Federal levels to give their full support while emphasizing that the initiative could position Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading regulated gaming markets.
He further pointed out to stakeholders that compliance with the law remains non-negotiable.
He particularly called on banks, telecommunications companies, and food & beverage firms planning promotional campaigns during the festive period in Cross River State to obtain the necessary license from the Agency before commencing such activities.
“This measure is to guarantee proper regulation, safeguard consumer interests, and prevent avoidable litigation.” He said.
Observers believe that the FSGRN reciprocity license could attract substantial foreign and local investment into Nigeria’s gaming sector and reduce operational bottlenecks while providing a more sustainable model for state-level revenue mobilisation.
