RGAAF Rallies Stakeholders to Tackle Nigeria’s Gambling Crisis

In the shadow of Nigeria’s booming sports betting industry, a growing coalition of experts and institutions is sounding the alarm on gambling-related harms. At a recent stakeholder event, Dr. Arit Esangbedo, Consultant Psychiatrist and President of the Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (SURPIN), called for urgent multi-sectoral collaboration. She emphasized that government agencies, gaming operators, and advocacy groups must unite to tackle the rising tide of gambling addiction, rather than working in isolation.

Dr. Esangbedo proposed the creation of a national Trust Fund dedicated to Advocacy, Prevention, Treatment, Recovery, and Research. This fund, she argued, would provide the backbone for sustained and coordinated efforts to combat gambling harms. Without such infrastructure, she warned, Nigeria risks falling behind in protecting its most vulnerable citizens from the psychological and financial toll of addiction.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), represented by Commandant Chinyerem Eziaghighala of the Lagos Command, echoed these concerns. While commending the Lagos State Government’s interventions, Eziaghighala noted a troubling gap: the individuals most affected by gambling addiction often remain the least served. He urged the state to prioritize direct support for victims, ensuring that recovery resources reach those who need them most.

Regulatory bodies like the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) are stepping up their efforts. Mrs. Margaret Osa, speaking on behalf of CEO Bashir Are, highlighted the documentary Behind The Bet as a powerful tool for public awareness. The film showcases the LSLGA’s commitment to responsible gaming and underscores the importance of education and consumer protection in an increasingly digital betting landsca
Mental health institutions are also preparing to play a larger role. Dr. Taiwo Oduguwa, representing the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, affirmed the hospital’s readiness to collaborate with advocacy groups and regulators. While treatment services are available, he noted that they are subject to standard fees—reinforcing the need for financial support mechanisms to make care more accessible to those struggling with gambling disorders.

At the heart of this movement is Behind The Bet, a documentary that strips away the glamour of betting to reveal its emotional and psychological costs. Through personal stories and expert insights, the film reframes gambling as a systemic issue driven by economic hardship, aggressive marketing, and weak regulation. It calls for empathy, accountability, and a national conversation—reminding viewers that while betting may be entertainment for some, for others, it’s a silent crisis demanding urgent attention.