Workers at the National Lottery Authority (NLA) have formally notified management of their intent to strike, threatening to halt services by June 24, 2026. This decision stems from widespread complaints about poor working conditions, significant operational challenges, and alleged lapses in governance.
The union, representing NLA staff, stated that urgent steps must address these long-standing grievances. Repeated engagements with both NLA management and its Governing Board have not yielded results. The union described the situation as “persistent inertia,” negatively impacting staff welfare and the authority’s operational efficiency.
This impending industrial action could severely affect the NLA's revenue generation, a crucial component of government non-tax income. The NLA collected GHS 173 million from KGL in the 2025 financial year, with an additional GHS 44.9 million from 29 other companies. Disruptions threaten the Authority’s ability to meet its financial obligations and contribute to national development. Previous reports highlight ongoing tensions between NLA staff and management, including disputes over salaries and working conditions.
The union’s complaints include a lack of functional laptops, printers, and basic stationery for workers. They also reported poor office ventilation, faulty air-conditioning systems, and deteriorating staff accommodation as critical issues. Frontline staff using Point of Sale (POS) systems face frequent breakdowns of outdated terminals. These equipment failures disrupt revenue collection and expose workers to public frustration, according to the union.
Furthermore, the union alleges that management bypasses provisions in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). They claim non-transparent recruitment practices and weak internal consultation processes. Concerns also extend to regulatory enforcement, with the union arguing that unregulated private lottery operators erode the NLA’s market share. This directly impacts the Authority's revenue streams.
Other issues include the use of reportedly unroadworthy official vehicles. Delays in paying lottery winnings to beneficiaries also feature among the complaints. The union expressed concerns about alleged irregularities in software procurement and maintenance of key payment systems. These operational inefficiencies can undermine public trust and the NLA's overall integrity.
The union demands an improved set of working tools and the replacement of obsolete POS machines. They also call for the suspension of ongoing recruitment processes and stronger regulatory enforcement against illegal operators. The implementation of a staff Scheme of Service and a Health Insurance Scheme remains a key demand. These measures are crucial for career progression and overall staff welfare.
The NLA union has set a deadline of 5:00 PM on June 19, 2026, for management to address their concerns. Failure to resolve these issues will trigger a full withdrawal of services. The management of the National Lottery Authority has not yet publicly responded to the strike notice or the allegations.