Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that the Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission has introduced sweeping new reforms to overhaul, digitise, and enforce higher standards across the state’s gaming industry following its 2025 Stakeholders Forum in Enugu

The Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission (ESGC) has announced sweeping regulatory reforms aimed at sanitising and modernising the state’s gaming industry, following the 2025 Enugu State Gaming Stakeholders Forum held on November 6, 2025, at the Amadeo Event Centre, Enugu.

The forum, which brought together operators, agents, regulators, and industry experts, resolved to implement a series of directives designed to strengthen compliance, enhance transparency, and fully digitise gaming operations across the state.

Full digital migration ordered

A major outcome of the forum is the mandatory migration of all gaming operators and agents to the Enugu State Gaming Regulatory Management Platform (GRMP), an automated digital portal for licensing, renewals, monitoring, and reporting. The platform, accessible via the Commission’s official website, will now serve as the exclusive interface for regulatory engagement.

Deadline for licence revalidation

The ESGC directed all existing operators to revalidate their licenses on or before December 31, 2025, warning that defaulting operators will face temporary suspension until compliance is achieved.

Compulsory display of approval signage

Beginning March 31, 2026, all licensed gaming outlets must display the official ESGC Approval Signage within their premises. The Commission stressed that the signage, obtainable only from ESGC, will serve as proof of legitimacy to players, communities, and law enforcement agencies.

Ban on makeshift gaming structures

In a significant enforcement shift, the commission announced an immediate ban on gaming operations conducted in kiosks, umbrella stands, or other makeshift structures. Only approved permanent structures that meet ESGC’s physical and operational standards will be permitted. Non-compliant points will be shut down, with possible license revocation.

Deployment of gaming inspectors

To ensure strict enforcement, ESGC will deploy gaming inspectors to all 17 local government areas. These inspectors will verify field operations, enforce compliance, and ensure adherence to all guidelines. Operators are required to grant them full access at all times.

Local government liaison offices to open

The commission also revealed plans to open ESGC liaison offices across all LGAs to improve accessibility, provide compliance support, and strengthen regulatory presence at the local level.

Responsible gaming and community development

ESGC announced an expansion of its Responsible Gaming Awareness Campaign and unveiled plans for new Good Cause Projects in 2026, focusing on education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. Operators were encouraged to adopt responsible gaming principles and participate in community development initiatives.

Zero tolerance for illegal gaming

Reiterating its firm stance against illegal betting operations, the commission said coordinated enforcement exercises will begin in January 2026 to clamp down on unlicensed operators, illegal betting points, and unauthorised gaming activities. Defaulters will face fines, suspension, or license withdrawal.

Mandatory monthly reporting

All licensed operators will now be required to submit monthly reports detailing turnover, payouts, agent activity, and compliance status through the GRMP. ESGC described this as part of its strengthened oversight measures to ensure accountability and data-driven regulation.

In his closing remarks, Prince Arinze Arum, Executive Secretary and CEO of the Commission, reaffirmed ESGC’s commitment to building a fair, transparent, and technology-driven gaming environment in Enugu State. He urged operators to fully comply with the new directives, stressing that “compliance is non-negotiable” and essential to a credible and sustainable gaming sector.