The Liberia National Lottery Authority (NLA) has raised concerns over alleged misconduct by its Director General, Reginald K. Nagbe. If corrective measures are not implemented, these issues could significantly impact the entity.
Allegations Against Director Nagbe
Mr. Nagbe holds a tenured position that is set to expire before August 2025. However, allegations have surfaced regarding missing government-owned vehicles, which have not been accounted for. Staff members who recently inquired about these vehicles reportedly received no clear response.
Additionally, multiple NLA accounts have been allegedly depleted on a weekly basis, raising concerns about potential financial instability. Employees and industry stakeholders are urging strong preventive mechanisms to prevent the organization from facing bankruptcy.
About the National Lottery Authority
The NLA was established on March 6, 2015, to regulate games of chance in Liberia and generate revenue for social development programs. The organization also funds educational initiatives, particularly for disabled students.
Financial Misconduct & Suspicious Transactions
An anonymous insider revealed that large sums of money have allegedly been withdrawn from NLA accounts. “Huge cash is being allegedly taken from some of the accounts. But you know this man has about a month or less to be here. So, you should know what I am talking about.” – Insider source.
Over time, several dubious financial transactions have reportedly taken place within NLA. Concerns about financial irregularities intensified after an earlier report suggested a rushed casino license approval before Liberia’s new administration took office.
NLA Casino License Controversy
In January 2024, a leaked document revealed that Platinum Entertainment Incorporated, a company seeking a casino license, was fast-tracked for approval just weeks before President Joseph N. Boakai’s inauguration. However, records indicate that Platinum Entertainment did not legally exist in Liberia until January 18, 2024, despite submitting its request on January 11, 2024.
Lack of Response & Government Oversight
Efforts to contact Director Nagbe for clarification were unsuccessful—his phone was off, and a text message went unanswered. In response to growing concerns, Liberia’s Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) initiated a compliance review of NLA. The agency aims to strengthen inter-agency coordination, enhance knowledge-sharing, and enforce compliance with Liberia’s AML/CFT laws.
Next Steps & Calls for Accountability
With Director Nagbe’s tenure nearing its end, industry members continue to demand transparency and financial accountability to safeguard NLA’s stability.
