Nigerian coalition denounces Central Gaming Bill as unconstitutional overreach

More than 80 civil-society organisations have condemned Nigeria’s proposed Central Gaming Bill, arguing that the National Assembly is violating a 2024 Supreme Court ruling that places gaming regulation under state, not federal, authority.

A coalition led by the Coalition for Good Governance (CGG) held a press briefing in Lagos on 10 November 2025, accusing lawmakers of attempting to “usurp state powers” through the Central Gaming Bill. Coalition leader Nelson Ekujumi called the proposal “a journey into legislative lawlessness,” stressing that the bill contradicts constitutional precedent.

Legal experts echoed the criticism. Attorney Obinna Akpuchukwu described the bill as “unfounded and unconstitutional,” noting that the Supreme Court’s 2024 judgment categorised lotteries and gaming as residual matters, legally reserved for Nigeria’s 36 states.

State-level regulators have also raised alarms. The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) warned earlier that the bill would create regulatory instability, undermine existing state frameworks and disrupt the country’s investment climate.

For gambling operators, affiliates and regulatory advisers, the backlash signals that attempts to create a unified federal gaming framework will face major constitutional and political barriers. Market participants are closely watching whether the bill advances or collapses under growing opposition.