The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is positioning Abuja as a new hub for investment and tourism through the formal regulation of the gaming industry — a move expected to drive revenue, ensure transparency, and support responsible gaming practices.
With the newly launched regulatory framework, the FCTA aims to harness the economic potential of gaming while providing operators with a structured and investor-friendly environment. The move follows a Supreme Court ruling affirming the FCTA’s authority over gaming and lottery activities within the capital territory.
Speaking at a joint briefing with the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), Director General of the FCT Lottery Regulatory Office, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, described the development as a transformative step.
“This is not just about enforcing regulations,” Gbajabiamila said. “It’s about building an ecosystem that supports fair play, encourages responsible gaming, and unlocks economic value for Abuja.”
He assured that all licenses previously issued by the now-defunct National Lottery Regulatory Commission remain valid until their expiration, noting that the transition would be handled with care and collaboration.
Mr. Michael Ango, Acting Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, emphasized that leisure-driven industries like gaming are vital to the capital’s economic diversification strategy.
“Gaming can contribute meaningfully to Abuja’s growing profile as a tourism destination,” Ango stated. “The regulation gives us a pathway for sustainable growth and improved tax compliance.”
Both agencies praised the leadership of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, who directed the immediate implementation of regulatory oversight, and pledged to maintain a transparent, collaborative framework that benefits all stakeholders.