By Charles Okonji
The Executive of the National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW) have stated that the country rakes in over $2 billion annually as Lagos State alone nets over $243 million.
This was disclosed during the the question and answer session of the press conference of the union in Lagos over the weekend by Comrade Wales Balogun, Acting DGS.
He noted that the sector creates over 650,000 jobs annually, with over 147 registered operators in the sector, urging the stakeholders to allow the employees join the union.
On his part, Comrade David Omaghomi, National Treasurer, that the event marks a pivotal moment for the gaming and lottery industry in Nigeria.
Omaghomi said; “Today, the National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW) takes another bold step in its journey to secure Better Workers, Better Results, Better Good Causes for all stakeholders-workers, operators, regulators, and the gaming public.
As we prepare for two landmark events-the Stakeholders Summit on December 14th, 2024, and the National Delegates Conference from January 23rd to 25th, 2025-this briefing outlines the critical challenges and opportunities facing the industry, along with the union’s plans to lead a paradigm shift toward fairness, professionalism, and growth.
“The gaming and lottery sector holds tremendous potential for employment, economic growth, and public good. However, it is hampered by persistent challenges, including: Illegal Operators: Unregulated activities undermine public trust, reduce stakes, and jeopardize the entire industry. We are ready to work closely with regulatory authorities to flush out these bad actors,
“Underage Betting: Protecting minors is non-negotiable. The union will actively support awareness campaigns and strict enforcement of age restrictions to uphold industry integrity. Multiple Taxation: Overlapping tax regimes stifle growth and profitability. We advocate for streamlined taxation policies to foster sustainability for operators and workers alike.”
He lamented that some organizations continue to violate workers’ rights, offering poor working conditions and inadequate compensation, stressing that NUGLOW will take a hard stance against any organization that undermines workers’ rights.
Commenting on public harassment and fraudulent activities by employees or agents which destabilizes operations, he called for robust collaboration among stakeholders to address the aforementioned issues decisively.
He pointed out that gaming under poor conditions or defacing environments harm the industry’s reputation, adding that the union will champion improved workplace standards to reflect the dignity and professionalism the sector deserves.
“The ban on gaming in some states is a pressing issue that requires dialogue and resolution. Additionally, harmonizing regulatory frameworks internationally is essential for cross-border growth and trust. The gaming and lottery industry’s foundation is its workers, the first line of contact with the staking public. Their welfare, training, and professionalism are directly tied to: Enhanced business sustainability and survival and Increased revenue for public good causes. NUGLOW recognizes workers as the backbone of the industry and pledges to transform them into well-equipped ambassadors. Better workers mean better results, and better results mean better good causes.” He expressed.
