The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have joined forces to protect the integrity and security of the lottery sector in Nigeria.
The deal was reached when the director-general of NLRC, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila visited the acting inspector-general of police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, at the force headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting underscored the collaboration between the two organisations, aiming to fortify the nation’s lottery sector while upholding the rule of law.
In his remark, Gbajabiamila congratulated Egbetokun on his appointment as IGP by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said the core purpose of the visit was to further solidify the existing partnership between the NLRC and the NPF.
Dwelling on the pivotal role lotteries play in both entertainment and socio-economic development, Gbajabiamila stressed the importance of maintaining transparency, fairness, and security in all facets of lottery operations.
This commitment, he noted, was instrumental in safeguarding public interests and the trust of stakeholders.
Gbajabiamila articulated the joint responsibility of both organisations in combatting fraud, manipulation, and any unlawful activities that could potentially erode public confidence in the lottery industry.
Specifically, he highlighted the NLRC’s reliance on police officers for monitoring and enforcing compliance within the lottery sector, whilst seeking the cooperation of the IGP in directing commissioners of police across the country to assign officers to assist the commission when required.
He said, “This visit aims to consolidate on the existing collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, which is crucial in maintaining the integrity of our nation’s lottery system and upholding the law. Through our combined efforts, we can effectively combat any attempt at fraud, manipulation or illegal activities that could undermine the public’s trust in the lottery industry.
“Specifically, the NLRC would require the service of the police officers, in the process of monitoring of lottery activities and enforcement of compliance. Therefore, we solicit your cooperation in directing commissioners of police nationwide, to release police officers to assist the commission whenever the need arises.”
In a statement issued by the NLRC yesterday, Gbajabiamila said Egbetokun’s response was filled with assurance and determination.
He underscored the NPF’s commitment to supporting the NLRC in its oversight and enforcement roles.
The IGP pledged to elevate this partnership to new heights of mutual cooperation.
Egbetokun noted Gbajabiamila’s requests and affirmed that appropriate instructions would be communicated to police commissioners across the country in this regard.
“I want to assure you that the Nigeria Police Force will assist you in your monitoring and enforcement duties. We will partner with you in investigating and fighting fraud, providing security needs for your personnel while you go about your lawful duties.
“Know that I have taken note of your requests and instructions will be given as regards Police commissioners nationwide,” the IGP said.
