NLA orders end to paper-based lotto operations nationwide from 1 October

Pinned summary · as of 04:21

Private lotto operators, agents and writers across Ghana must drop paper-based betting slips by Thursday, 1 October 2026, the National Lottery Authority (NLA) has said. The authority announced the deadline in a public notice on Monday, 28 September, and wants those who plan to stay in business to sign up as Lotto Marketing Companies.

What we know

• The NLA says all manual lotto operations that rely on paper will cease nationwide from Thursday, 1 October 2026. The order covers private lotto operators, agents and writers working under the authority.
• The notice was released on Monday, 28 September 2026.
• The NLA warned that anyone who fails to comply will be barred from operating and will face the full force of the law.
• Operators who want to continue trading are being told to register as Lotto Marketing Companies (LMCs). The NLA says they should visit a sales manager at a regional or district branch anywhere in the country, or call Aisha Tackie on 0247 242 942.
• Anyone needing further help can ring the NLA's customer service team on 0266 087 966 or, alternatively, 0266 087 946.

What's disputed / unconfirmed

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  Rainbow Radio Online reported that the NLA described 1 October as the end of an earlier extension, given so operators could move to digital and electronic platforms. Citi Newsroom did not carry this point, so it has not been confirmed by other reports.

Why it matters for Ghana

Many lotto writers and small agents in towns and communities across Ghana earn a living from paper-based sales. From Thursday they must either become registered LMCs and use electronic systems or stop selling. Players who buy tickets from local agents may also find that unregistered sellers are no longer allowed to operate.