Nigerian state gaming regulators reject FCCPC sales promotion rules

The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) has opposed parts of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission's (FCCPC) Sales Promotion Regulations 2026, saying the rules would give a federal agency authority over lotteries, games of chance and related gaming activities that states regulate. The federation set out its position in a statement shared with The Guardian on 21 October 2026.

In the FSGRN's view, the rules clash with the legal position the Supreme Court set out in November 2024. Sales promotions and prize-based activities involving an element of chance are the main point of contention. The federation acknowledged that consumer protection is part of the FCCPC's remit, yet argued that certain provisions seem to reach into territory that state gaming regulators have traditionally covered.

The FSGRN further argued that approval, licensing and supervisory duties for lottery-, casino- and chance-related activities would put federal and state authorities in each other's way. It added that, notwithstanding the Supreme Court ruling, promoters are still being steered by some provisions toward federal lottery structures and approvals.

According to the federation, the rules exceed ordinary consumer protection: registration requirements, approval processes and supervisory powers in its view look like gaming regulation. It pointed to registration of promotions, issuance of certificates, authority to suspend or revoke approvals, and oversight of prize draws. In the FSGRN's assessment, such functions are normally the work of state gaming authorities where lotteries, casino-style promotions or other games of chance are concerned.

The FSGRN wants the regulations amended, and it asked that provisions it sees as trespassing on state authority over lotteries, promotional lotteries, prize draws and games of chance be struck out. Federal authorities should also make sure the rules are consistent with the Supreme Court ruling, the federation urged.

The source reports that federal lawmakers in the National Assembly tried a legislative workaround last year, pushing a new Central Gaming Bill despite having lost at the Supreme Court. Under the proposed bill, a Remote Gaming Licence would have let offshore and interstate digital operators skip state gaming boards altogether. President Bola Tinubu withheld assent, the source states, in order to uphold the Supreme Court's verdict.

The FCCPC has been asked for comment on the federation's position. No response was given in the source.