DIGITAL SPORTS BETTING AND STUDENTS' ADDICTION: A SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF ITS IMPACT ON TUITION-FEE UTILIZATION AMONG SOCIOLOGY STUDENTS, TARABA STATE UNIVERSITY, JALINGO

Abstract

Digital sports betting has expanded significantly globally, with growing participation among youths in African nations like Nigeria, where over one-third of its undergraduates engage in sports betting. This study investigates digital sports betting and students' addiction, focusing specifically on its impact on tuition-fee utilization among students of Taraba State University, Jalingo. The study relied on the explanatory strength of social learning theory. A survey design was adopted, with data collected from 268 respondents and analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings reveal a high level of participation (grand mean = 3.12), with strong preferences for online betting (Mean = 3.34) and football betting (mean = 3.26). Results further show significant financial implications (grand mean 2.80), as students divert educational funds and experience financial stress. The study concludes that betting is prevalent among Taraba State University students, and it undermines financial stability and academic priorities. The study recommends that university management should institutionalize periodic financial literacy and responsible gambling awareness programmes within student orientation and general studies courses. In addition, the university should regulate and restrict on-campus promotion of betting services, while collaborating with student unions and campus organisations to promote alternative recreational and income-generating activities that reduce reliance on gambling.