The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has launched a major digital transformation programme in partnership with Fidelity Bank, introducing a new technology platform that raises instant lottery payouts from GH¢1,200 to GH¢30,000 while modernising lottery operations nationwide.
The partnership was unveiled at the NLA Headquarters in Accra on Monday, with the Authority describing it as one of the most significant operational reforms in its recent history.
Addressing a press conference, Director-General of the NLA, Mohammed Abdul Salam, said the agreement is designed to replace outdated infrastructure that has constrained the Authority’s operations for nearly a decade.
“For too long, that backbone has been asked to carry a modern load with obsolete systems. The rest of the retail and financial world moved years ago while we stayed with 2G connectivity,” he said.
Mr. Salam explained that the partnership followed almost a year of technical assessments, commercial negotiations and risk reviews to ensure the Authority adopted a solution capable of meeting modern operational demands.
He said the agreement replaces obsolete Point-of-Sale terminals and unreliable 2G connectivity with next-generation equipment supported by a more dependable network infrastructure, enabling faster, more efficient lottery transactions across the country.
A key feature of the initiative is the significant increase in instant prize payments through POS terminals, with winners now able to receive up to GH¢30,000 immediately, a twenty-five-fold increase from the previous ceiling of GH¢1,200.
The Director-General further announced a new financing arrangement for jackpot winners under which Fidelity Bank will make full payments to winners immediately, while the NLA reimburses the bank over an agreed period.
“This gives winners certainty and speed while allowing the Authority to maintain sound cash-flow management. It is a structure that places the customer first without compromising the financial integrity of the NLA,” he explained.
Mr. Salam said the investment reflects the Authority’s determination to compete effectively with accredited private lotto operators by offering superior technology, faster services and an improved customer experience rather than relying solely on regulation.
He expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank, its technical partners, Lotto Marketing Companies, NLA staff and agents for supporting what he described as a critical transformation agenda.
Deputy Managing Director for Wholesale Banking at Fidelity Bank, Kwabena Boateng, said the bank identified network connectivity as one of the biggest operational challenges facing the NLA and has assembled the necessary technical expertise to address it.
“We are partnering with a service provider and our technical team to deploy the most appropriate solution for the NLA. This partnership will enable the Authority to achieve its strategic objectives and strengthen its contribution to national economic growth,” he said.
The NLA expects the new digital platform to improve operational efficiency, enhance agent productivity, reduce transaction delays and deliver a better experience for lottery players across Ghana.
Story by: Ruth Quaye
