Lagos issues 30-day ultimatum to MTN, Airtel, others to verify betting firms’ licences

The Lagos State Government has given telecommunications operators, including MTN, Airtel, Globacom and T2, 30 days to verify the licences and tax compliance status of betting companies operating through their platforms.

According to Nairametrics, the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority issued the directive to mobile network operators and licensed value-added service providers.

The authority also demanded transaction records, carrier billing data and revenue-sharing information covering November 22, 2024, to the notice date.

Operators must stop onboarding unlicensed gaming businesses and suspend existing unauthorised services.

The authority stated, “The Authority hereby clarifies that a licence, authorization or approval issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (“NCC”) for telecommunications or VAS activities does not constitute a licence or authorization to conduct or facilitate lottery, betting or gaming activities in Lagos State.”

It warned that companies failing to comply within 30 days could face regulatory sanctions and enforcement measures.

The directive aims to strengthen gaming regulation and ensure operators fulfil licensing and tax obligations.