Ugo Aliogo
The surge of gambling game among Nigerian youth has raised concerns regarding an increased exposure to violence and abuse among individuals that patronise the game.
The Gamble Alert, in collaboration with Gamban (UK), has conducted a review aimed at assessing the prevalence of gambling challenges in Nigeria and ways to address the problem.
The Nigerian betting industry valued at over $2 billion in 2020 alone, attracted both domestic and international investors by offering a wide array of gaming options, including sports betting, lotto games, and even predictions for national elections.
While contributing to job creation and government revenue, the industry also poses significant risks of addiction, financial strain, and adverse social consequences.
According to Gamble Alert report, the primary objective of the research was to comprehensively review the prevalence of gambling game and its associated effects in Nigeria.
The data collected from the report indicated that individuals, aged 18 and above in 34 states across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, focusing on variables such as socioeconomic characteristics, betting activities, gambling harm, and awareness of treatment services were under review.
The agency reported that the data revealed a significant concentration of gambling among respondents aged 26-35, closely followed by the 18-25 age bracket.
According to their findings, regional analysis highlighted disparities, with the North East zone exhibiting the highest concentration of punters in the North, while the South West zone led in the South.
The report also indicated that in the realm of gambling, where chance intersects with choice, external factors often exert a considerable influence, adding that data analysis revealed a higher prevalence of gambling potentially influenced by varying religious beliefs with Christians on the high against Muslims.
A significant number of punters were introduced to gambling by close associates, indicating the role of peer influence in shaping gambling behaviour.
The survey underscored the adverse effects of gambling, with more than one-quarter of respondents admitting to frequently lying due to gambling, 53 per cent skipping school or work, and over half resorting to theft or illegal activities to finance their gambling habits seen as an addictive effect of gambling.
Moreover, the research highlighted concerning aspects of gambling behaviour, with 59 per cent of punters experiencing financial desperation and 70 per cent reducing their spending to accommodate gambling.
Additionally, 26 per cent reported losing something significant due to their gambling activities, indicating potential addiction and associated welfare losses. Psychological distress was also evident, with 69 per cent of punters feeling guilty about their gambling, 57 percent experiencing isolation, and only 35 per cent seeking help.
According to the agency: “Awareness of treatment services was relatively low, with only 30 per cent of respondents aware of the activities of Gamble Alert, and 68 per cent of punters doubting the effectiveness of self-exclusion.
“This lack of awareness and confidence in intervention tools underscores the need for increased education and outreach efforts among punters to encourage the adoption of self-exclusion for improved outcomes.
“The research found that the majority of punters are single, suggesting that they may have fewer responsibilities and more disposable income to spend on gambling. This finding aligns with previous reports indicating a correlation between marital status and gambling behaviour.
“Punters were categorized based on their responses to harmful betting questions, with 48 per cent classified as medium level, 33 per cent as low, and 19 per cent as high on the gambling scale. This indicates a significant portion of punters in need of assistance to address their gambling addiction.
“The findings underscore the urgent need to address the mental health repercussions associated with problem gambling and establish support systems for individuals struggling with addiction.
“Collaboration among relevant stakeholders, including the government, key players in the gaming industry, and organisations like Gamble Alert, is crucial to combat the menace of problem gambling.
“By working together, it will be possible to raise awareness about the risks of excessive gambling and promote responsible gambling practices, creating a safer and healthier environment for all,” it stated.
