The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has welcomed Hon. Faustina Elikplim Akurugu, Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, to its Governing Board. Her appointment, effective May 19, 2025, is viewed as a strategic move to bolster the NLA’s operational effectiveness and align its objectives with the government’s broader developmental agenda. This article examines the specifics of this appointment, the board’s mandated duties, and the anticipated future direction of the National Lottery Authority. Insights from figures such as Deputy Minister of Finance Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem and Board Chairman Mr. Frederick Amissah, help contextualize Hon. Akurugu’s role on the NLA Governing Board, a development confirmed by official sources, setting the scene for potential transformative changes within the NLA.

Hon. Faustina Elikplim Akurugu’s addition to the board is expected to bring fresh perspectives and contribute to the NLA’s goals. As the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, she brings a wealth of experience in public service. Her inclusion is specifically intended to enhance revenue generation and support job creation initiatives, aligning with the government’s economic objectives. The appointment of Hon. Akurugu is legally grounded in Section 36 of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722), providing a solid legal framework for her role and responsibilities within the National Lottery Authority.

Hon. Akurugu joins a seven-member board tasked with steering the National Lottery Authority. Other key members of the board include Mr. Frederick Amissah, who serves as the Board Chairman, Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam, Mr. Edward Abrokwah, Ms. Doreen Panyin Annan, Mrs. Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu, and Mr. Gerald Baffour Awuah Bonsu. Each member brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, contributing to a diverse and well-rounded leadership team. These individuals collectively bear the responsibility of guiding the NLA’s strategic direction and ensuring its operational success.

The core responsibilities of the board encompass a wide range of crucial functions. These include steering the affairs of the National Lottery Authority, enhancing revenue generation to support national development projects, and aligning the NLA’s operations with the government’s broader job creation and development agenda. Deputy Minister Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem emphasized these responsibilities during the swearing-in ceremony, highlighting the government’s high expectations for the board’s performance and contributions to the nation’s progress. The Deputy Minister articulated the government’s vision, emphasizing the need for strategic alignment and effective execution of the NLA’s mandate.

The government has high expectations for the NLA Governing Board, particularly in driving revenue for national development. The Deputy Minister of Finance emphasized the critical role the board plays in this regard. “The board is entrusted with the responsibility of maximizing revenue generation for the benefit of the nation,” he stated, underscoring the importance of their work. This charge reflects the government’s commitment to utilizing the lottery sector as a key source of funding for vital public services and infrastructure projects. The board is expected to implement innovative strategies to boost revenue and ensure that the NLA remains a significant contributor to the national economy.

Furthermore, the Deputy Minister called for unwavering transparency and innovation across the National Lottery Authority’s value chain. This mandate aims to ensure that the NLA operates with the highest ethical standards and embraces modern technologies and practices to enhance efficiency and accountability. The emphasis on transparency is intended to build public trust and confidence in the NLA, while the call for innovation seeks to drive continuous improvement and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the importance of supporting the government’s employment goals through the lottery sector. This involves creating opportunities for job creation through various initiatives and partnerships, contributing to the overall reduction of unemployment rates and improvement of livelihoods. The NLA is expected to play a proactive role in fostering economic empowerment and creating a positive social impact through its operations.

Board Chairman Mr. Frederick Amissah expressed his gratitude to President Mahama and the Finance Minister for the opportunity to serve and lead the National Lottery Authority. He acknowledged the trust placed in the board and pledged their unwavering commitment to fulfilling their mandate with diligence and integrity. Mr. Amissah’s expression of gratitude reflects a sense of responsibility and dedication to serving the nation.

The board is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and ensuring operational efficiency across all aspects of the NLA’s activities. This commitment underscores the board’s dedication to building a sustainable and reputable lottery institution that serves the best interests of the public. The emphasis on collaboration reflects a recognition of the importance of working together with various stakeholders to achieve common goals.

Mr. Amissah also articulated a clear vision of transforming the National Lottery Authority into a world-class lottery institution. This vision entails adopting best practices, embracing innovation, and continuously striving for excellence in all areas of operation. The goal is to position the NLA as a leading lottery organization that sets the standard for performance, integrity, and social responsibility.

The appointment of Hon. Elikplim Akurugu to the NLA Governing Board signifies a pivotal moment for the National Lottery Authority, aligning it more closely with national development objectives. With a clear focus on revenue enhancement, transparency, and groundbreaking innovation, the board, under the stewardship of Chairman Frederick Amissah, is well-positioned to elevate the NLA to world-class standards. Stakeholders can anticipate a reinforced dedication to integrity and efficiency, ultimately benefiting the nation through a thriving and effectively managed lottery sector. The addition of Hon. Akurugu on the NLA Governing Board promises to infuse new insights and specialized knowledge into the Authority’s operations.