By Paul Mamattah
The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has unveiled new draw machines and relaunched the Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG) in Accra to improve efficiency and catch up with modern trends. They are also to replace the existing ones which are 27 years old.
The event showcased the four (4) state-of-the-art Draw Machines and the newly remodeled Draw Studio, which are set to revolutionize the lotto gaming experience for players.
Addressing the gathering, the Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Samuel Awuku, highlighted the NLA’s commitment to responsible gaming and the recent attainment of Level 2 Certification from the World Lottery Association (WLA).
He explained that to achieve higher certifications, the NLA is required to operate with machines of the highest standards, ensuring fair play and transparency for all participants.
He acknowledged the sentimental value attached to the previous Draw Machines, which had served NLA, the Lotto Marketing Companies, and other stakeholders faithfully for 27-years.
“These machines brought joy to many, luck to the fortunate, and occasionally disappointment to a few. However, due to the machines’ deteriorating functionality and the unavailability of spare parts, NLA has made the difficult decision to phase them out”. He explained.
As part of the NLA’s dedication to enhancing the lotto gaming experience, Mr Awuku announced the introduction of an additional draw in the afternoons, providing players with three daily opportunities to win starting from September 4, 2023.
He further stated that the newly introduced four Draw Machines will be utilized for the Monday Special, Midweek, Friday Bonanza, and National Weekly Lotto Games.
He pointed out that the existing Draw Machines responsible for the Lucky Tuesday, Fortune Thursday, and Sunday Aseda Games will continue until the complete withdrawal of all old machines. Additionally, NLA has procured an additional Random Number Generator (RNG) machine for the Caritas promotions.
Mr Awuku, also highlighted the partnership between NLA and the Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG), which commenced in June 2018.
Under the collaboration, NLA exclusively holds lotteries, raffles, and similar games on behalf of VAG. As part of the partnership renewal, NLA also relaunched the VAG Lotto Game, exclusively available to its Lotto Marketing Companies (LMCs).
The new schedule of the VAG Lotto Draw will now be at 10:00 AM from Monday to Saturday, providing players with extended playing opportunities.
Mr Awuku expressed deep gratitude to the Veterans Administration of Ghana for their active cooperation and assured NLA’s commitment to fulfilling its contractual obligations promptly. He also extended appreciation to the Minister of Defence,
Dominic Nitiwul, for his continuous support to VAG and NLA.
He, therefore assured the playing public that the new draw machines would not alter the dynamics of the game, but rather, they would add more excitement and opportunities for players to win. The NLA looks forward to continuing its journey with Lotto Marketing Companies and valued patrons, appreciating their loyalty and support over the years.
The Minister of Defense, praised the NLA for its efforts in sustaining the game over the years and rebranding it, offering Lotto Marketing Companies and patrons enhanced experiences.
He acknowledged the significant benefits the Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG) derived from their partnership with the NLA and commended the NLA for providing the Veterans with monthly cash payments, medical aid, and other benefits stipulated in the agreement.
Mr Nitiwul also recognized the military’s collaboration with the Ghana Police Service in flushing out illegal lottery operators, demonstrating the NLA’s commitment to upholding the law.
He urged the NLA to promptly fulfill its obligations to the Veterans, allowing them to plan effectively for their members’ welfare.
Mr Nitiwul emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship and cooperation between the NLA and VAG, stating that a unified front would keep illegal lottery operators out of business and lead to increased revenue, benefiting both organizations.
The defense minister, extended his best wishes to the NLA and VAG for their renewed partnership and congratulated them on the successful launch of their new draw machines, draw studio, and the relaunch of the VAG Lotto Game.
