NLA reveals massive revenue loss of GH¢1bn due to illegal lottery operators
The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has disclosed that approximately 1 billion Ghana Cedis (around $130 million) in annual revenue is being lost to illegal lottery operators.
The NLA identified around 780 unauthorized lotto operators across the country, significantly impacting the authority’s revenue collection.
Sammy Awuku, the Director General of the NLA, testified before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament, revealing that political interference has hampered efforts to combat these illegal operations. He stressed the need for a bipartisan approach, as many of these operators have connections to Ghana’s two major political parties.
The NLA estimates that the country’s lottery industry is worth approximately 1.8 billion Ghana Cedis annually, with illegal operators controlling about 55% of the market. These unauthorized operators evade taxes and operate without licenses, complicating enforcement efforts.
Despite challenges, the NLA is determined to crack down on illegal operations, refusing to allow unlicensed entities to continue undermining revenue mobilization efforts. Awuku emphasized the importance of fairness and transparency in regulation, calling the situation “the biggest monster in the room” that requires collective political will to address.
Sammy Awuku noted, “You go after these illegal lottery operators, and they are more or less politically affiliated with the two major political parties in Ghana. But we have been resolute in stamping our feet and ensuring that those not licensed will not be allowed to operate.”
