The Deputy Director General for Lotto Games at the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Richlue Burphy, has praised the newly introduced 5/90 lottery game as a vital tool in advancing the government’s economic agenda.
Burphy, speaking over the weekend on Punch FM, described the lottery as a “rescue in action,” emphasizing its potential to generate significant revenue for critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He argued that beyond entertainment, the initiative is a strategic move to uplift Liberians, particularly vulnerable groups, by providing financial support through legal gaming revenue.
The 5/90 lottery format, which involves selecting five winning numbers from a pool of 90, is widely played across West Africa, including in Ghana, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast. In Liberia, the game is being operated by Blue Star Hi-Tech Liberia Limited, following its selection through an international competitive bidding process on February 20, 2025.
Burphy highlighted the projected financial impact, stating that the lottery is expected to generate millions of dollars annually, which will be reinvested into the economy. He assured the public that NLA remains committed to transparency and accountability in managing these funds, with corporate social responsibility being a key focus.
Addressing concerns about gambling addiction, Burphy stated that the NLA will implement measures to promote responsible gaming. He also underscored the importance of community engagement, saying the authority plans to work with local organizations and the media to ensure the lottery benefits all segments of society.
With high expectations for the success of the 5/90 lottery, Burphy expressed confidence that through collaboration with his colleagues and leadership at NLA, the initiative will serve as a sustainable economic driver for Liberia.
