International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Sports betting has evolved over the years from an informal activity to a multibillion-dollar global industry. This transition of sports betting to a sophisticated global sports industry was advanced by modern technology and cultural shifts. Based on the contemporary marketing strategies, there is a high involvement of youths in sports betting around the globe. A high proportion of youths in Nigeria are engaged in sports betting due to the love for football. Despite the expansion and wide acceptance of sports betting globally, there remain serious concerns over its negative societal impacts.
Objective: This study investigated the impact of sports betting on financial management and mental health among students of Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
Method: A cross-sectional survey research design was used. The population of the study is 18,132. From the population, a sample size of 391 was derived, using the Taro Yamane formula. A simple random sampling technique was used to determine the respondents from the sample size. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, with a consistency coefficient of 0.81. The analysis was done using descriptive statistics and presented using frequency tables. Chi-Square was used to test the hypotheses.
Result: Findings show that sports betting have a high prevalence rate among students of the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. It also showed a relationship between sports betting and financial losses, including depression among the students. The study further showed a relationship between sports betting and academic performance among students.
Conclusion: The study concludes that majority of students of the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State are involved in sports betting, despite the negative consequences such as financial losses, depression and poor academic performance. This is attributable to the addictive nature of the activity and also, peer influence.
Unique Contribution: This study has offered new insight into the negative consequences of sports betting on students. Expectedly, university authorities, government and other stakeholders will find this useful in planning on how to mitigate the effects of sports betting among students.
Key Recommendation: Sensitization aimed at improving students' knowledge on the potential risks associated with sports betting should be organized by universities, government and other stakeholders.