Bill Sponsor: Sen. Bamidele, Michael Opeyemi (Ekiti Central-Senate Leader).
Bill Progress: Concurrence
On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the Central Gaming Bill, 2025 (HB. 2062) was presented for concurrence during Senate plenary. Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader and representative for Ekiti Central, plays a pivotal role as the bill progresses in the Senate following its passage in the House of Representatives.
The bill has been proposed in Nigeria with the intent to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for online and remote gaming, aiming to replace the previously repealed National Lottery Act of 2005.
One of the central provisions of the bill is the repeal of the National Lottery Act No. 7 of 2005 and the National Lottery (Amendment) Act No. 6 of 2017. A key feature of the bill is the establishment of a Central Gaming Commission, tasked with overseeing and regulating all forms of online and remote gaming in Nigeria. This new commission would take over responsibilities from the now-defunct National Lottery Regulatory Commission.
The proposed legislation seeks to regulate the operation and business of online gaming across all states in Nigeria, including a specific provision for activities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The bill would also empower the new commission to issue licenses and permits to online gaming operators, as well as certify gaming technology and service providers, including those from foreign jurisdictions. Notably, it aims to prohibit certain payment methods, including cryptocurrencies and gift cards, while recognizing the potential of blockchain technology.
Proponents of the bill argue that creating a unified national framework is essential for streamlining the industry, curbing illegal operations, and enhancing national revenue.
