Stakeholders in gaming have raised concerns over gambling addiction in Nigeria.

Gathered in Lagos under the auspices of the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB) and Gamble Alert, the gaming stakeholders said owing to rising concerns relating to gambling harm, they are resolved more than ever to advocate for safer and more responsible gaming in Nigeria.

The convergence saw gaming operators discuss and strategise on ways to prevent and treat gambling addiction.

Speaking, the Executive Secretary of ANB, Mrs Olabimpe Akingba said the ANB, which is the national trade group for gaming, is committed to responsible gaming.

She charged all and sundry to take up the promotion of responsible gaming as a social responsibility and one in the interest of a better society.

“As key players in the gaming industry, we recognize our responsibility to address the potential harms associated with our activities hence our commitment to responsible gaming,” she said.

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of Gamble Alert, Mr Fisayo Oke, itemised the organization’s ongoing initiatives in the fight against gambling addiction.

This, he said, includes extensive efforts in public sensitisation on responsible gaming and the provision of treatment support for individuals grappling with gambling-related issues such as addiction.

He emphasised the importance of understanding the root causes of gambling addiction to tailor effective preventive measures and treatment programmes.

Furthermore, he spoke of commitment of Gamble Alert to evidence-based intervention through groundbreaking research.

Stakeholders at the event committed to the provision of treatment to problem gamblers, signposting Gamble Alert’s helpline on various platforms, to joint awareness campaigns.

They also gave, as industry leaders, their collective determination to create a safer and more responsible gaming environment in Nigeria.

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