Title: Mitigation Strategies To The Prevalence Of Substance Abuse In Sub-Saharan Africa. Insight From Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Ejeh Benedict Abu Ibrahim John Aduke Olufunmilayo Bello
Volume: 9
Issue: 3
Pages: 124-132
Publication Date: 2025/03/28
Abstract:
background: This study examines substance abuse awareness, commonly abused substances, and mitigation strategies in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Methodology: A multi-stage sampling approach was used, categorizing LGAs into senatorial zones and selecting two from each based on population size. Systematic sampling was applied to choose wards, followed by convenience sampling for respondent selection. Data from 396 completed questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The result reveals that 96.4% of respondents are aware of substance abuse, aligning with previous studies reporting high awareness levels due to public health campaigns, media influence, and educational initiatives. The study identifies 11 commonly abused substances, categorized into legal (alcohol, tobacco, kola nut), over-the-counter drugs (tramadol, alabukun, cough syrup), illegal substances (cannabis, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines), and inhalants. Among these, alcohol (86.6%), cannabis (85.8%), and kola nut (85.3%) recorded the highest abuse rates, while heroin (13.4%) and cocaine (18.2%) had the lowest. The study also explores mitigation strategies, highlighting moral education (mean score: 4.75) and substance abuse treatment (4.73) as the most preferred interventions. Other effective measures include increased religious activities (4.71), rehabilitation programs (4.69), and skill acquisition (4.67). Conclusion: The findings support ecosystem theory, emphasizing family, education, and community influence in addressing substance abuse. Treatment approaches in Kaduna integrate medical, psychological, and social support. The study underscores the need for multi-dimensional interventions, including awareness campaigns, skill acquisition programs, and accessible rehabilitation services, to reduce substance abuse prevalence.