In a heartbreaking development that underscores the escalating dangers of gambling and financial pressures among young Nigerians, a 300-level computer science student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai has reportedly taken his own life after losing ₦600,000 — money he allegedly placed on sports betting instead of using it for its intended purpose.
The student, identified as Kelvin Danlami, was found hanging in his room in the early hours of January 19, 2026. A neighbour discovered his body and alerted authorities, who confirmed his death at the General Hospital in Lapai.
His loss has deeply shocked the university community and reignited urgent conversations about student welfare, the pressures of campus life, and the growing influence of betting culture on Nigerian youth.
A Promising Life Cut Short
Kelvin, a third-year student in the Department of Computer Science, was widely described by peers as a dedicated and promising young man. According to fellow students, he had been entrusted with funds intended for rent, but instead allegedly used the money for online betting — leading to significant losses.
The discovery of his body has left classmates, lecturers, and community members devastated. A spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that police have launched a formal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Kelvin’s death.
Campus Reaction and Calls for Support
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of IBBUL described the incident as “tragic and deeply painful,” emphasizing that the campus community is still grappling with the loss of one of its own. Many students have called for increased mental health support, counseling services, and measures to address the rising trend of gambling-related harm among students.
One student cited in reports said the tragedy has left many undergraduates in shock, urging fellow students to seek help if they feel overwhelmed.
The Bigger Picture: Gambling and Youth Vulnerability
This tragic event is not isolated. Nigeria has seen multiple cases of young people experiencing severe emotional distress and, in some instances, suicide connected to heavy gambling losses and debts. Researchers and mental health advocates have noted that easy access to online betting platforms, aggressive marketing, and economic pressures make students particularly vulnerable to addiction and financial ruin.
Analysts suggest that, beyond personal loss, gambling can exacerbate existing stressors — including academic pressure, financial insecurity, and the absence of robust mental health support systems on campuses. These factors create a volatile environment where vulnerable students may feel trapped and unable to cope.
Expert Calls for Action
Mental health professionals and campus leaders are increasingly calling for comprehensive strategies to protect students:
- Enhanced mental health services on university campuses.
- Education and awareness campaigns about the risks of gambling.
- Stronger support networks for students facing financial or emotional challenges.
- Collaboration with tech companies and regulators to curb predatory gambling practices.
Such interventions aim to reduce the stigma around mental health struggles and ensure students have safe avenues for help long before crises escalate.
A National Concern
Nigeria’s youth population is among the largest in Africa, and many young people are drawn to online betting with the hope of quick financial gains. However, as this tragedy highlights, the allure of easy money can quickly turn into financial despair and emotional crises. Ghana, South Africa, and other countries have reported similar concerns where losses to gambling resulted in devastating outcomes.
This loss also raises difficult questions about the role of regulation, advertising, and education in protecting young Nigerians from harmful betting behaviours.
