Nigeria’s Lottery Industry Contributes N200 Billion to GDP in 2023, Says Tajudeen Abbas
Bennett Oghifo
Nigeria’s lottery industry contributed over N200 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023, according to Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The announcement was made in Abuja during the launch of a biography titled Mr. Lottery: The Story of Lanre Gbajabiamila @ 60, authored by the Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila.
The Speaker, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, lauded the achievements of the lottery sector under Gbajabiamila’s leadership.
“Lanre Gbajabiamila has not only redefined the lottery industry but has made significant contributions to national development. His dedication to innovation and transparency has elevated this sector from obscurity to being a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy,” Kalu said.
The event was a celebration of Gbajabiamila’s personal and professional journey. The book launch attracted industry stakeholders, lawmakers, and dignitaries who praised his transformative impact on the lottery sector.
Kalu described Gbajabiamila’s career as a testament to resilience, visionary leadership, and the ability to navigate challenges.
“The story of Lanre Gbajabiamila is one of determination and innovation, showing us that the lottery is not just about chance but about creating opportunities and empowering communities,” he added.
Under Gbajabiamila’s stewardship, the NLRC implemented reforms that significantly boosted revenue generation, taking internal revenue from N200 million to billions of naira annually.
According to Kalu, his tenure also saw the promotion of responsible gambling and the introduction of modern technologies in lottery operations.
“Gbajabiamila’s biography, Mr. Lottery, offers a detailed account of his life, career, and the transformation of the gaming industry in Nigeria. The book explores his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in an industry previously riddled with inefficiencies”, Kalu noted.
Reflecting on the process of writing the book, Gbajabiamila said, “I wondered if people would want to read about me, but I realized my story is intertwined with the growth of an industry that holds immense potential for our nation. This book is not just my story—it’s about the opportunities we can create together.”
The book also highlights his commitment to philanthropy, with proceeds dedicated to Gamble Alert and GamblePause, two initiatives that promote responsible gambling and support individuals dealing with addiction.
As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy, stakeholders at the event emphasized the untapped potential of the lottery industry.
Gbajabiamila called on policymakers and investors to recognize the sector’s capacity to generate sustainable revenue and create jobs.
The book reviewer, Charles Imole, noted that the biography, described as a mix of humour, inspiration, and insightful commentary, also sheds light on the challenges Gbajabiamila faced in implementing reforms.
He said that it portrays him as a resilient leader who overcame resistance and bureaucracy to establish a thriving, transparent industry.
The event saw glowing tributes from attendees, including messages of goodwill from prominent figures such as business mogul Femi Otedola.
Gbajabiamila expressed his gratitude to his family, colleagues, and supporters who played pivotal roles in his journey.
“Mr. Lottery is more than a book; it’s a reflection of the power of collaboration and a call to action for all Nigerians to believe in the potential of our industries,” Gbajabiamila said.
He mentioned that as Nigeria continues its journey toward economic diversification, the lottery sector stands out as a shining example of how innovation and leadership can unlock hidden potential
