"Lost Potential": The Alarming Consequences of Drug Abuse among Youths in Malete Community, Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State

Authors

  • Olaolu Oyinlola BILEWU Kwara State University
  • Yusuf Funsho ISSA Kwara State University
  • Saka Bolakale SULAYMAN Kwara State University
  • Abdul-Rasheed Olalekan TIJANI Kwara State University
  • Ige TAIYE University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin Kwara State
  • Oyeniyi ADEGBOYEGBA Kwara State University
  • Abdulkadir Katibi ABDULAFEEZ Kwara State University
  • Oluwaseun Samuel ADEBIYI Kwara State University
  • Idowu David ALAKE Coverage Evaluation Survey Consultant (Research) Sightsaver, Updave Research Concept, Ilorin, Nigeria

Keywords:

Drug abuse, Youth, Determinants, Effects, Mitigation strategies, Malete Community, Nigeria.

Abstract

Drug abuse among youths stands as a mounting concern, casting a long shadow over both individual
well-being and community health. This study critically investigates the impact of drug abuse within
the Malete Community of Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. It probes into
demographic influences, uncovers the prevalence and root causes of drug use, scrutinizes its farreaching
consequences, and advances strategic recommendations to stem the tide of this pressing
social menace.A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 450 youths aged 15-29 years residing
in Malete Community. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using
descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests to assess associations between
variables.The majority of respondents were aged 21-25 years (49.3%), predominantly
female(52.9%), and of Yoruba ethnicity (68.2%). A high prevalence of drug abuse was reported,
with38.7% of respondents engaging in substance use. The most commonly abused substances were
alcohol (25.3%), Colorado (19.5%), and cigarettes (10.9%). Key determinants of drug abuse
included negative peer influence (83.3%), lack of parental care (69.6%), and easy access to drugs
(72.9%). Adverse effects of drug abuse included physical health issues (55.1%), poor academic
performance (54.9%), financial difficulties (54.0%), and increased youth crime (52.4%). Strategies
to curb drug abuse emphasized counselling services (44.7%), youth empowerment (44.4%), and
recreational activities (64.9%).
Drug abuse among youths in Malete Community is influenced by socioeconomic and cultural
factors, leading to significant health, academic, and social consequences. The study recommends
the implementation of comprehensive counselling services, youth empowerment programs, family
support initiatives, and increased recreational opportunities to address and prevent drug abuse
among youths in Malete Community.

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Published

2025-08-05

Issue

2025: Lead City University Postgraduate Multidisciplinary Serial 6

Section

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