At the Regional Conference on Climate Change-Induced Conflicts in Northern Nigeria, the Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), Comrade Tosin Adeyanju, passionately urged state governments to reconsider their restrictions on lottery operations, highlighting how proceeds from lottery initiatives are channeled into essential public services. This conference, organized by the Kaduna State Bureau of Interfaith in collaboration with International Alert, served as an important platform for Adeyanju's call to action.
"In Nigeria, we often lament over everything while we don’t do much about solutions," Adeyanju stated, addressing misconceptions surrounding the lottery. He clarified, "What we do is GOOD CAUSES, achieved through the lottery proceeds that come to the Federal Government."
Adeyanju emphasized that lottery revenues are allocated to vital areas such as water supply, environmental protection, education, sports, agriculture, healthcare, and humanitarian relief, which directly benefit communities across Nigeria. He highlighted the gaming industry as a valuable tool in addressing climate-related challenges, noting that it contributes to national development and could aid in tackling the resource-driven conflicts affecting northern Nigeria.
"The gaming industry contributes to development globally, and Nigeria is no exception," Adeyanju said, underscoring that lottery funds are critical in alleviating issues exacerbated by climate change. He shared how the NLTF has already supported numerous communities and is committed to expanding these efforts through lottery proceeds.
In his appeal, Adeyanju urged states with lottery bans to lift these restrictions and collaborate with NLTF’s state branches. "By reconsidering their decisions, states can help reduce youth criminality, as we continue nationwide advocacy for responsible gambling and lottery," he added, pointing to this year's nationwide sensitization campaign as an example of NLTF’s commitment to responsible gaming.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Kaduna State Governor Sen Uba Sani, Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa, the Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar II, and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Most Reverend Dr. D.C. Okoh, alongside other distinguished dignitaries.
Adeyanju's appeal resonates at a time when Nigeria faces socio-economic challenges and climate-induced conflicts. By embracing the potential of lottery funding, state governments could secure much-needed resources to support vulnerable populations, fostering stability and community development across the nation.
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