In the heart of Abiola Johnson Street, Ajegunle, Lagos State, a cybercafé is bustling with activity. Underage clients, oblivious to their surroundings, are glued to their computers, placing bets on football games and other sports events. This is not an isolated incident; cybercafés across the city and its suburbs have transformed into betting sites, ensnaring young minds in a web of addiction.
According to Jere Owolabi, the cybercafé operator, the introduction of online betting has transformed the business model of cybercafés. “Cybercafés are no longer just internet places; they are now betting sites,” he said. Cyber Betting Nigeria
The situation is dire. Many students and young professionals have abandoned their studies and jobs to pursue full-time betting. The majority of these young betters are males, with a few females joining them. They spend all day holed up in cybercafés, betting on obscure teams in far-off countries.
Consumer rights laws exist at both federal and state levels, but they are being flouted with impunity. The National Lottery Act 2005 prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from engaging in betting, but underage betters continue to frequent online platforms.
The proliferation of mobile payment systems and collaborations between betting companies and telecommunications providers has made it easier for young people to access gambling opportunities. The Premier Bet Lotto, known as “Baba Ijebu,” has partnered with MTN to allow users to participate in the lottery through shortcodes.
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The National Sports Lottery (NSL) Plc has installed 30,000 point-of-sale devices for E-payment lotteries, while Bet9ja has signed a three-year deal with the Nigerian National League to strengthen the Nigerian League.
The consequences of this addiction are devastating. Young people are susceptible to developing serious gambling problems, which can have a lasting impact on their social and emotional lives. In the digital age, young people are exposed to gambling more than ever before, and it is essential that measures be taken to protect them from exploitation. Cyber Betting Nigeria
According to a report by Play OJO’s research on underage gambling, more than 450,000 children gamble in the UK. In many other countries, this is one of the most vulnerable populations. Online casinos must adhere to relevant laws and terms and conditions to prevent underage gambling.
It is crucial that parents and authorities take notice of this issue and work together to prevent underage betting. Recognizing the signs of gambling trouble can be challenging, as it often works in a clandestine fashion. However, excessive spending and loss of money can be telltale signs.
The case of Nigeria’s online betting industry serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting young people from exploitation and addiction. It is imperative that measures be taken to prevent underage betting and promote responsible gambling practices.
Source: Business Day NG
