Governor Peter Mbah says gaming has enormous potential to drive and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy and tourism industry.

The governor disclosed this during the Enugu State Gaming Conference, which was held on Thursday at Amaedo Event Centre in Enugu.

Mr Mbah said Enugu was eager to drive the innovation and regulatory process.

The governor said the government keyed into the industry to boost its revenues and local economy.

However, he urged the operators and investors in the gaming and lottery Industry to imbibe the spirit of innovation and creativity to provide consumers with excellent services.

Mr Mbah advised that gaming and lottery operations should be conducted with integrity, transparency, and responsibility.

He assured the investors that the state government would continue to provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, adding that it was the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens.

While describing the conference as apt and timing, Mr Mbah urged the participants to come up with exciting discussions that would shape the future of the gaming industry in the country.

“We must separate gaming driven by addiction where you now have to wreck yourself financially by selling your properties, selling your jewellery or that of the members of your family because you want to play a game. These are two different things and that is where the regulators have a duty to checkmate this,” he said.

The executive secretary of the Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission, Arinze Arum, said the conference stood as a testament to their collective commitment to the future of the gambling industry in Enugu in particular and Nigeria in general.

According to Mr Arum, Enugu is uniquely positioned in Nigeria—a vibrant cultural and economic centre with a rich history and dynamic population.

Mr Arum said, “We are not only to discuss current challenges and opportunities but to chart a course towards sustainable growth and development that benefits all stakeholders, operators, consumers, and the industry at large. With the theme, this event has been carefully designed to help in the overall growth of the industry especially in Enugu state.

“It encapsulates our vision for a forward-thinking approach to industry growth through innovation spurred by strategic partnership.”

He explained that the gaming sector has tremendous potential to contribute significantly to the state’s economic prosperity.

Mr Arum called for its prudent and transparent management, social impact, and consumer protection.

While commending the state government for its support and unwavering commitment to building a unique and safe gaming destination in Nigeria, Mr Arum expressed gratitude to all its sponsors, partners, and organisers who made the conference a reality.

(NAN)