A cross-section of Abuja residents expressed mixed reactions on Monday regarding the growing trend of betting among Nigerian youths.
Speaking in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the residents described the phenomenon as a double-edged sword, acknowledging both its positive and negative impacts on society.
While some residents recognised that betting had created employment opportunities and provided financial gains for a few, they also pointed out the associated risks, including addiction, financial instability, and social vices.
The increasing number of betting shops and online platforms, they noted, had significantly influenced the lifestyle of many youths, making gambling an integral part of their daily routines.
Mr Gerald Okafor, a resident of Garki, stated that betting had become a livelihood for unemployed youths who viewed it as a quick way to earn money.
“Betting has helped a lot of young people make ends meet, especially in this economy where getting a job is difficult.
“I know some people who were able to pay their school fees and support their families with the money they won from sports betting,” he explained.
However, he emphasised that betting could be harmful if done irresponsibly, especially when individuals became addicted and used money meant for essential needs to gamble.
Okafor also acknowledged that excessive gambling had ruined the lives of some youths, leading them into debt, selling personal belongings, and even resorting to crime to fund their betting habits.
Similarly, Mr Ibrahim Saleh, a businessman in Wuse, noted that while betting companies had created job opportunities, they had also contributed to moral decay in society.
“These betting shops are everywhere, even near schools. You see young boys spending hours there instead of focusing on their education.
“It is affecting their mindsets, and they no longer believe in hard work but instead seek quick money. This is not good for society,” he said.
Saleh called for stricter regulations on the location of betting centres and the ages of participants.
Mr Gabriel Ogbonna, a sports analyst, suggested that betting could be beneficial if approached as a form of entertainment rather than a primary source of income.
“Betting is fun when done responsibly.
“It adds excitement to sports events, and people engage with their favourite teams more passionately.
“The issue is that some people view betting as an investment or shortcut to wealth, which can lead to addiction and financial problems,” he explained.
Ogbonna advocated for more public awareness campaigns to promote responsible betting and educate people about the risks involved.
He also encouraged parents and community leaders to teach young people the importance of hard work and financial discipline.
Mrs Constance Osinachi, a food vendor in Lugbe, expressed concern about the negative impact of betting on students, noting that some had become addicted to gambling.
“It is heartbreaking to see young boys who should be focused on their studies becoming obsessed with gambling.
“Some even steal from their parents to place bets. It is a serious issue that requires urgent intervention from the government and society,” she said.
Osinachi recommended that schools and religious institutions should incorporate lessons on financial literacy and the dangers of gambling into their curriculum.(NAN)
