Football viewing centres in an African megacity: viewers’ characteristics and operational dynamics

Abstract

This study examines viewers' characteristics and operational dynamics of football viewing centres (FVCs) in Agege, Lagos Megacity, Nigeria. It anchors on the "theory of happiness" and the microeconomic vitality of FVCs using a mixed-methods approach. The results of the descriptive and inferential statistics revealed that most viewers can afford subscriptions for digital TV in their homes, yet patronize the FVCs. Factors attributed to patronage are happiness, excitement, and other social opportunities, with some perspectives of leisure and microeconomic vitality benefits. Finally, the study suggests a new policy direction to mitigate the negative effects of unplanned areas resulting in the proliferation of FVCs.