The impact of substance abuse among youth in Abuja Municipal Area Council

Abstract

This study explored the impact of substance abuse among youths in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Nigeria, with the aim of identifying evidence-based strategies for intervention. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected from 384 youths aged 15–35 years using structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews (IDIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs). A multi-stage sampling technique ensured representation across schools, tertiary institutions, marketplaces, and residential neighborhoods. Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data, while descriptive statistics and linear regression were used for quantitative analysis. Findings revealed a high prevalence of substance abuse, with alcohol, cannabis, and codeine-based pharmaceuticals being the most commonly abused substances. Key determinants included peer influence, unemployment, family dysfunction, and limited access to education and rehabilitation services. FGDs highlighted severe consequences such as deteriorating health, increased crime, school dropout, and economic hardship. Despite the existence of community-based interventions, statistical analysis showed no significant impact on reducing substance abuse (p = 0.121). Participants recommended multi-sectoral strategies including school-based prevention, parental engagement, youth-focused rehabilitation, economic empowerment, religious and moral education, and targeted social media campaigns. The study concludes that substance abuse among youths in AMAC is driven by interrelated socio-economic, psychological, and environmental factors. Holistic, community- embedded interventions are essential to address this crisis and improve youth well-being. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and health professionals working to develop sustainable substance abuse prevention and intervention programs in urban Nigerian settings.