Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record label boss, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has urged young Nigerians to steer clear of using sports betting as a primary means of survival.
In a recent post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Marlian Music boss cautioned against the growing culture of overreliance on football betting, which has become increasingly popular among Nigerian youths.
“Football bet no be work bro. Please stop before they finish you,” he warned in the post that has since gone viral, sparking conversations across social media platforms.
Naira Marley went on to encourage young people to believe in their potential and work towards meaningful goals that could provide long-term security rather than chasing the uncertainty of betting slips. “You are far too smart to be the only thing standing in your way,” he added.
The musician’s comments come at a time when sports betting has become a widespread phenomenon across Nigeria.
Betting shops, online platforms, and mobile apps have become increasingly commonplace, offering young Nigerians what appears to be an easy route to wealth in a country grappling with high unemployment, inflation, and economic hardship.
Many youths see football betting as a quick escape from financial struggles, staking on international leagues such as the English Premier League, La Liga, and UEFA competitions with hopes of winning big.
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However, experts have consistently warned about the dangers of gambling addiction, financial losses, and its potential to destabilise lives and relationships.
Psychologists argue that while betting can provide momentary excitement, it often leads to unhealthy patterns of risk-taking behaviour.
“For many young people, betting can become compulsive,” says Dr. Adebayo Falola, a behavioural health specialist. “When losses pile up, they keep betting more, hoping to recover their money. Unfortunately, this can spiral into debt, strained family ties, and emotional stress.”
The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has also cautioned operators and urged them to enforce responsible gaming policies, including age restrictions and betting limits.
Despite these regulations, the betting industry continues to thrive, with reports indicating that Nigerians spend billions of naira annually on sports betting activities.
Naira Marley’s message appears to resonate with fans, many of whom applauded his boldness in speaking on an issue that affects millions of Nigerian youths.
“This is the kind of advice we need from celebrities,” one user commented. “People listen to entertainers more than politicians these days.”
Others, however, expressed scepticism, arguing that advice alone may not deter young people from betting unless there are broader structural solutions, such as job creation, access to quality education, and better economic opportunities.
As a leading voice in Nigeria’s music industry and a cultural influencer with millions of followers, Naira Marley’s intervention adds to ongoing conversations about youth empowerment and the need for sustainable livelihoods beyond quick-fix schemes.
His caution serves as a reminder that while betting may offer the illusion of easy money, it rarely provides long-term financial security. This message could inspire young Nigerians to channel their energy and creativity toward productive ventures.
