Otu creates new gaming agency, says ‘my government will not tolerate underage gaming’
Cross River State Governor Senator Bassey Otu says his administration will not tolerate underage gaming while creating an enabling environment for all stakeholders in the lottery and gaming sector in the State.
This according to the government is a step towards regulating and enhancing the industry as witnessed in the inaugural stakeholders meeting of the new agency – Cross River State Lottery and Gaming Agency in Calabar led by Hon. Michael Eja, its Director General.
The exercise marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to establish a framework that will benefit operators and stakeholders in the industry.
Eja explained that Governor Bassey Otu’s vision for the industry is to license and regulate all categories of operators in the State by holding them accountable and ensuring transparency in their dealings with the government and punters as regards payment of licensing fees and winnings. He added that the aim is to create a conducive environment that ensures transparency, fairness, and accountability in the sector.
He also emphasized promoting responsible gaming, and curbing underage gaming while protecting the vulnerable and those affected by gambling harms. He further explained the agency’s strategies in protecting the punters by ensuring operators and agents pay winnings on time and when due.
Prince Edwin Okon, the Chairman of Internal Revenue Service who was represented by Mr. Peter Ikpa, Head of Taxes and Charges appreciated Governor Otu for puting a round peg in a round hole in the new agency. Mr. Eja is viewed as a seasoned and knowledgeable person with vast experience in the sector who would deploy his wealth of experience to inspire confidence in the sector.
According to him, the inaugural meeting is important in setting a platform to regulate the activities of lottery and gaming in the State as well as bringing together State representatives and key players in the sector – R and S lotto, Betano, Betking, Bet9ja, Megastar Poll, Bet Bonanza, Premier Lotto, Protection Polls, Bet2Star Poll among others.
“This initiative not only benefits operators by providing a clear regulatory framework but also ensures that stakeholders are actively involved in shaping the industry’s future by fostering collaboration and engagement. The Governor is demonstrating their commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices and driving sustainable growth in the sector in line with his “people’s first mantra.”
And winding down, Mr. Alias Abdullah, Manager of RnS lotto in Cross River, said his organization was initially planning to shut down operations in the State but Governor Otu’s gesture has raised confidence in his administration by creating the agency. “We have decided to stay in the State.”
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
