The Head of Legal, Bet9ja Adewale Akande, made it clear that Bet9ja not only channels funds of the “good cause levy in that direction, but pays for the treatment of such addicts.” The Managing Partner, WYS Solicitors & Legal Counsel Africa- Olafadeke Akeju appeals for patience- “please remember that this industry is relatively young and emerging. The gaming industry is still expanding to accommodate complimentary providers and this symposium is very specific in addressing responsible gambling. This means we are aware of it, we are working on it and we ask that you give us some time to make more significant progress”
Olapegba made a final call on the government to play a more active role in regulation , enforcement and setting limits when it comes to addressing problem gambling activities. He also preached for family involvement and community awareness when it comes to early detection, as this is the stage where treatment tends to be more effective and guarantees lasting results: “pay attention to a change in mood, anxiety disorders and increased crime rate. Also look out for when individuals start to prioritize gambling over daily responsibilities, as these tend to be the tell-tale signs of when an individual crosses from recreational gambling to problem gambling”
Conclusion
The 5th Responsible Gaming Symposium made it abundantly clear that addressing gambling addiction requires a multi-stakeholder approach where operators, regulators, healthcare providers, and communities must work in unison. While gaming operators like BetKing, and Bet9ja are implementing individual measures—from self-exclusion tools to agent training and treatment funding—the industry’s sustainability ultimately hinges on collective action. The LSLGA’s upcoming “Operation Safe Keeping” platform represents a crucial step toward the centralized database that industry leaders have been calling for, while the appeal for federal government involvement underscores the need for comprehensive regulation and enforcement. As Professor Olapegba emphasized, early detection through family and community awareness remains key to effective treatment, reinforcing that responsible gaming isn’t just a corporate checkbox but a shared responsibility that extends far beyond the gaming floor. The industry’s acknowledgment of its challenges, coupled with concrete steps toward solutions, suggests that Nigeria’s gaming sector is ready to mature from rapid expansion to sustainable, responsible growth.
Author: Cynthia Areh
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