The House of Representatives has taken a decisive step towards curbing sports betting in Nigeria, calling on the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) to enforce the provisions of the Lottery Regulatory Commission Act, 2005.
This resolution emerged following the adoption of a motion presented by Rep. Kelechi Nwogu (PDP-Rivers) during the plenary session in Abuja on Thursday.
Nwogu highlighted the alarming statistic that approximately 60 million Nigerians, aged between 18 and 40, are involved in sports betting, raising concerns over the adverse effects of weak regulation in the sector. He emphasized the correlation between sports betting and mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and addiction.
The lawmaker further pointed out the detrimental impact on personal relationships, financial stability, and the rise in criminal activities associated with excessive gambling, culminating in tragic incidents of suicide.
In response to these concerns, the House passed a resolution urging the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to spearhead a nationwide campaign aimed at raising public awareness about the harmful consequences of youth involvement in sports betting.
Additionally, the House mandated the Committee on Inter-Governmental Affairs to organize a Public Hearing to examine the dangerous effects of sports betting in Nigeria. The committee is expected to present its findings within four weeks for further legislative action.
Data from the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) reveals that over 65 million Nigerians are actively engaged in betting, spending an average of 15 dollars daily. The NLTF further estimates that Nigerians spend approximately 975 million dollars daily on online sports betting, amounting to about 356 billion dollars annually.
