Oyo Assures of Responsive Environment for Gaming, Lottery

The Oyo state government at the weekend indicated its readiness to continue to build a sustainable, responsive and responsible gaming environment for residents and stakeholders in the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, who spoke at the 5th annual stakeholders’ interactive forum, organised by the State Gaming Board in Ibadan, noted that the government will continue to explore the positive potential associated with gambling and lottery.
The interactive forum, which was aimed at engaging gaming operators and other stakeholders on exploring the state’s developmental agenda in the sector, had the theme: “Tax and Task, Building a Sustainable Gaming Environment.”

 Adeyemo, in her presentation said the gaming industry was thriving, but that all stakeholders should ensure sustainability to include appropriate regulations and responsible gaming.
She explained that the Oyo state government has a framework for gaming and lottery operations to protect the citizens and look into opportunities to benefit as a state.

She said: “The summary of my presentation is that this is a really thriving industry and we should do what we need to do to make sure that it is sustainable, including appropriate regulations and being responsible in gaming. It has come to stay.

“What we can do is to explore the opportunity as well as manage the risks that are associated with gambling and lottery.”
Adeyemo added that responsible gaming, also known as responsible gambling was the obligation of all, including gaming operators, the government, regulators, providers, researchers, community groups and individuals.

She stressed that the government can only build a sustainable and responsible gaming environment with the efforts of the stakeholders.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director General of the Oyo State Gaming Board, Olajide Boladuro, appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for the opportunity to serve in his administration.

He noted that economic sustainability remains a very vital issue to  the state’s viability, stating that the stakeholders’ interactive forum would, among other things, feature conversations around safer gambling, retail gambling in Nigeria, industry opportunities in technology and industrial opportunities in Oyo State.

He expressed optimism that the theme and topics of discussions, which were carefully selected, would drive the innovations for the growth of the state and expansion of many industries.
Boladuro added that taxation plays a vital role in the gaming industry as it generates revenue for the government and also drives the economy of the state.