By Uzair Adam
A research expert and communications lecturer at Kano State Polytechnic, Malam Aisar Fagge, has expressed deep concern over the rise of online sports betting among Nigerian youth, especially university students.
He attributed this trend to the worsening economic hardships, unemployment and a widespread “get-rich-quick” mentality, which he warns is leading to dishonest behaviors and damaging lifestyles.
According to Fagge, research reveals that a significant portion of those involved in online gambling are university students, whose academic performance suffers as they dedicate countless hours to betting instead of their studies.
He shared these insights as the lead speaker during a seminar at Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, where he cited empirical findings across geo-political zones in Nigeria indicating that 66 percent of online sports gamblers are students.
Alarmingly, he noted that gambling losses have led some young people to attempt suicide.
During the event, titled “The Pervasiveness of Sports Betting (Online Gambling) Among Undergraduate Students in Nigerian Universities,” Fagge defined online gambling as the risky investment of money in hopes of gain or, in extreme cases, even personal belongings like wives, which he described as madness.
He voiced alarm over this disturbing trend, highlighting that these youths are supposed to be the future leaders of society but are instead risking their lives for gambling—a problem that has been repeatedly reported in various situations and times.
He noted that while online gambling is globally popular, it has particularly gained a foothold among African youth.
He stated that in Kenya, for instance, 84 percent of young people engage in online betting daily, with Nigeria ranking close behind.
Fagge warned that Nigeria might soon surpass Kenya in gambling numbers due to its large population, a trend he sees as unfortunate given the many productive ways students could use their phones to earn a living.
He also cited how this activity goes against Islamic teachings, as mentioned in the Qur’an.
He further explained that, in the past, gambling was considered anti-social in Hausa communities, but modern technology now provides anonymity, making it easier and more enticing.
He blames the internet and social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and X for promoting this activity.
Despite acknowledging the economic challenges facing many Nigerians, he stressed the importance of patience and resilience, reminding his audience of the Islamic belief that life’s tests are part of a divine plan.
“Although we all know the current economic situation in Nigeria, we must remember that we are Muslims. Allah clearly states that He will test us. This is life: today may be good, tomorrow may be bad.”
He pointed out that although online gambling is prevalent among youths, the situation in Northern Nigeria remains better than in Southern regions, like Lagos, where many shops openly facilitate gambling.
Fagge cited a 2024 study by Olusegun et al., highlighting that 79 percent of online gamblers in Nigeria are young people aged 18 to 35. He also cited incidences were some students committed suicide for losing money during betting and the drop-outs who used their registration fees for sports betting.
Football, he noted, has the highest following in sports betting, with 74 percent of bets nationwide placed on football matches, which fuels the global popularity of the sport.
He shared the story of a young businessman who, over seven years, lost over 18 million naira, with his largest win being only 360,000 naira.
He urged youths to quit gambling before they reach the stage of addiction which is considered as a “point of no return,” cautioning, “Once someone crosses that point, it’s hard to stop, with the hope that they might win someday.”
The Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University, Professor Salisu Sheshu, commended the lecture as timely and vital, given the audience—digital natives. He encouraged students to apply the knowledge gained from the seminar.
The Daily Reality reports that the event gathered academics from within and outside the university, along with guests and numerous students.