From pool to baba ijebu and sports betting: Analysis of typology and spatial distribution of gambling platforms
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.7.1.112Mots-clés :
Gambling Typology and Distribution, Harmful Gambling, Physical Planning Regulations, Spatial Pattern, Urban Informality, NigeriaRésumé
Globally, the gambling industry has undergone significant evolution and expansion. This study investigates the typology of locational characteristics of betting platforms. The study utilised a survey research design, and data were collected through a combination of reconnaissance surveys and detailed preliminary field investigations. A total of 581 gambling outlets were identified and geo-referenced. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test showed a statistically significant difference between compliant and non-compliant gambling outlets (Z=−2.60, p<0.01), and the spatial distribution of gambling locations was found to be clustered (R=0.408, z-score=-27.241). The study notes that gambling-related harm is spatially produced and maintained and that informality acts as a risk multiplier. It concludes that planning regulation is a vital and critical, yet underutilised, harmful gambling prevention tool. The study recommends strict enforcement of planning regulations, including setback and buffer zones, and advocates for the registration of existing outlets to improve government oversight and social impact monitoring.
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