Impact of Drug Addiction Among Youths in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

Drug abuse has emerged as one of the most critical social and public health issues of the 21st century, with youths being disproportionately affected. In Nigeria, rising cases of substance misuse among adolescents and young adults threaten educational outcomes, health, and national development. This study, therefore, examined the prevalence, causes, and impact of drug addiction among youths in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised youths between 18 and 40 years, and a total of 150 respondents were selected from three Local Government Areas using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire, and both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for analysis. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed that while poverty had no significant relationship with drug addiction, peer influence and unemployment were strongly associated with substance abuse among youths. The study further showed that many respondents engaged in drug use for social acceptance, relief from stress, and peer conformity, leading to negative health, psychological, and academic consequences. Based on the findings, it is recommended that government and non-governmental organizations intensify preventive education, create skill acquisition programs, and expand employment opportunities. Stronger policies and monitoring mechanisms are also needed to control drug distribution channels and safeguard Nigerian youths from substance abuse.