Popular Afro-street musician and Marlian Records founder, Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley, has advised the youths to stop treating football betting as a source of livelihood.

The singer gave the advice on Sunday via a post on his verified X handle (formerly Twitter).

“Football bet no be work bro. Please stop before they finish you. You are far too smart to be the only thing standing in your way,” the singer wrote.

The artist’s post comes at a time when concerns about gambling addiction among young Nigerians are on the rise. With unemployment and economic hardship hitting hard, many youths have turned to betting apps as a means of survival.

Betting on football matches has grown rapidly in popularity, fuelled by easy access to mobile phones, cheap data, and an ever-growing interest in both local and international leagues.

But experts have consistently warned that the betting craze may lead to long-term problems, including addiction, poor mental health, loss of savings, and in extreme cases, criminal behaviour.

Despite the health warnings, Nigeria’s betting market continues to thrive, partly due to flashy adverts, influencer endorsements, and a lack of strong regulatory enforcement.

Naira Marley, who is known for speaking directly to street culture, joins a growing list of celebrities voicing concern over the negative influence of gambling on Nigerian youth.