The Enugu State Government has unveiled a sweeping reform of its gaming and lottery industry following the signing into law of the Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission Law, 2025, by Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Announcing the development at a press conference held on December 17, 2025, at the Enugu State Gaming Commission (ESGC) Boardroom, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Prince Arinze Arum, described the new law as a decisive break from the past and a complete transformation of the state’s regulatory framework.
“Today is a landmark day for Enugu State. I am pleased to announce that His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has signed into law the new Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission Law, 2025. This is not merely an update—it is a complete transformation of our regulatory landscape,” Arum said.
According to him, the new legislation repeals the old Gaming Commission Law, Cap 86 of the Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004, and replaces it with a modern, comprehensive and accountable framework that establishes the Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission with wide-ranging regulatory powers.
“At its heart is the creation of the Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission, a body empowered with the authority, tools, and mandate to ensure integrity, responsibility, and transparency across all gaming activities in our state,” he stated.
Inspectors to Enforce Law Without Notice
Arum disclosed that a major highlight of the law is the creation and empowerment of Gaming Inspectors, who will no longer operate as passive regulators but as active enforcers.
“These will not be passive observers. They are highly trained, technically qualified officials granted clear statutory powers to enter, inspect, search, and—where necessary—seize equipment from any premises, licensed or unlicensed, without prior notice,” he said.
He explained that the inspectors will conduct unannounced inspections, access records, equipment and software, question staff, detain suspects in coordination with law enforcement, and seal unlicensed premises that obstruct the law.
“Their mandate is clear: to root out illegality, ensure fairness, and protect the public,” Arum added.
Strong Consumer Protection, Social Impact Fund Introduced
Beyond enforcement, the ESGC boss said the law introduces what he described as the most robust consumer protection framework in the region.
Under the new regime, licensed operators will be required to provide self-exclusion tools, deposit limits and cooling-off periods, disclose clear and truthful information about odds and risks, prohibit underage and vulnerable persons from participation, and resolve customer complaints transparently within strict timelines.
In addition, Arum announced the establishment of the Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission Charitable Trust Fund, which will be funded through industry revenue.
“A portion of all industry revenue, including 50 per cent of unclaimed winnings and a dedicated Good Cause Levy, will be channelled into public projects in health, education, security, and infrastructure,” he said, noting that the gaming industry would now “contribute directly and visibly to the common good.”
Tougher Licensing Standards for Operators
Prince Arum said the new law significantly raises the bar for market entry, stressing that only serious and credible operators would be allowed to do business in Enugu State.
“The new licensing regime requires significant capital investment and local content participation, rigorous ‘fit and proper’ tests for all owners and key employees, certification of all gaming equipment and software by accredited bodies, and full compliance with anti-money laundering and financial reporting standards,” he said.
He added that existing operators would be given a transitional window to reapply under the new standards.
“For existing operators, there is a transitional pathway. You must re-apply under the new standards. We invite you to engage with us, upgrade your operations, and be part of this new, reputable ecosystem,” Arum stated.
‘Enugu Is Open for Business—But Not Lawlessness’
In his concluding remarks, the ESGC chief described the signing of the law as a clear statement of intent by the Enugu State Government.
“The signing of this law is a declaration. Enugu State is open for business—but only for responsible, compliant, and ethical business,” he said.
He assured the public that their protection remained paramount, while promising investors clarity and fairness, and warning defaulters of strict enforcement.
“To the public: your protection is our priority. To investors and operators: clarity and fairness are our promise. To those who would flout the law: our inspectors will be your certainty,” Arum declared.
He confirmed that the Commission is now fully operational and that enforcement activities have commenced, adding that a detailed publication of the new law is available upon request and on the Commission’s website.
