Should Nigeria follow global trends in restricting gambling advertising?

As gambling becomes increasingly popular across Nigeria, debate has intensified over whether the government needs to crack down on gambling advertising. Other countries, such as the Netherlands, Italy and some other European countries, have already taken steps and are working out plans to limit these advertisements to reduce gambling-related problems.

Could Nigeria benefit from following their lead?

Insights from Global Restrictions

Recently, Brazil enacted laws regulating gambling advertisements to reduce exposure to the possible negative effects of gambling among young people and vulnerable groups. By setting limits on the manner and places gambling ads can be run, Brazil finds a balance between economic interests and social responsibility, a proposition that might resonate with Nigeria, where gambling advertisements appear just about everywhere.

The United Kingdom’s “watershed” rule bans gambling ads on TV before 9 p.m., while Italy has gone even further by implementing a near-total ban on gambling advertisements. Although Italy’s strict regulations were met with economic pushback, the government prioritised public health over revenue from gambling.

The Economic Perspective for Nigeria

Nigeria needs to perform the same balancing act. One can’t deny that gambling generates revenue. It also creates jobs within this sector. However, its advertising has been the number one major risk, particularly for younger audiences. Perhaps the best way for Nigeria to achieve this is to follow the measured restrictions set by either Brazil or Italy in order to nurture economic growth while taking care of the welfare of its public.

One way forward could be responsible promotion of betting bonuses. Bonuses give a transitional, controlled entry into betting, whereby the bettor engages within limits set by the bonus rather than falling into overbetting cycles.

For those exploring betting options, betting bonuses offer an opportunity to engage with the industry responsibly, potentially reducing harmful gambling behaviours. As gambling becomes increasingly important to the Nigerian economy, the government’s policy priority remains whether or not to permit unrestricted advertisement of its services.

Following the example of countries like Brazil, where operators are prohibited from displaying unsubstantiated claims about the probability of winning, ads must not promote betting as a socially approved pastime or suggest that gambling can solve financial issues. Nigeria can find that balance that will offer the required boost for economic development but without denying the well-being of its citizens.

Source: blueprint.ng

About Post Author

Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.

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Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.