Prevalence, Causes, and Effects of Drug and Substance Abuse among Youth in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

The issue of drug and substance abuse among youth in Sabon Gari Nasarawa (SGN), Kaduna State, Nigeria, is a growing concern that brings about serious health, social, and economic challenges. This study investigated the prevalence, causes, and effects of drug and substance abuse in SGN, a community situated in the Chikun local government area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Mixed methods of data collection were employed for this research. Questionnaires and interviews were used as the data collection tools, and the data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25) software. The study findings indicated that a large number of residents, particularly youth, engage in drug and substance abuse due to peer pressure, parental negligence, and the accessibility of drugs and substances. Additionally, the study revealed a significant correlation between drug abuse and the community’s crime rate. The study proposes the implementation of awareness campaigns, the establishment of a community guidance and counseling unit, and strict law enforcement to apprehend and penalize drug peddlers.