COVER PAGE

SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUTH OF BULABURIN

WARD, NGURU LOCAL GOVERNMENT, YOBE STATE

BY

MARYAM MOHAMMED ALGONI

REG NO: ND/EHT/21/053

GALTIMA MAI KYARI

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY NGURU,

YOBE STATE

MAY, 2023

1
 TITLE PAGE

SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUTH OF BULABURIN

WARD, NGURU LOCAL GOVERNMENT, YOBE STATE

BY

MARYAM MOHAMMED ALGONI

REG NO: ND/EHT/21/053

A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE GALTIMA MAI KYARI

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY

NGURU,YOBE STATE

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
TECHNOLOGY

2
 MAY, 2023

APPROVAL PAGE

This project titled “The Socio-economic effect of drug abuse among youth of
Bulaburin Ward, Nguru Local Government Yobe State” it has been read and
approved as meet the partial requirements governing the award of National
Certificate in Environmental Health Technology. Galtima Mai Kyari College of
health sciences and technology Ngyru, Yobe State.

_________________ ____________

Project Supervisor Sign/Date

Mal. Misbahu Sikiru

_________________ ____________

Project Coordinator Sign/Date

Mal. Bamai Jaji Bunu

3
_________________ ____________

Head of Department Sign/Date

San. Muhammad Mustapha

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this project work has been written by me and it has not been
presented or submitted elsewhere in any form at any institution of higher learning
and it was thoroughly supervised by Mal. Misbahu Sikiru

_________________ ____________

Maryam Mohammed Algonii Sign/Date

ND/EHT/21/053

4
 DEDICATION

This research project is dedicated to Almighty Allah who bestowed knowledge and
wisdom to mankind the architect of all situation for making it possible for me and
ambiguities involved in the study of this nature and my beloved parent Mal.
Muhammad Algoni and Malama Inna Ali for their prayer advice encouragement
motivation and financial support given to me to see that I have finish my
programme successfully I wishing them the best in their life endeavours. May
Almighty Allah continue to bless and reward them Abundantly (Ameen).

And also dedicated to Aunty Kubura Muhammad AbdulHameed, Alh Auwalu

Garba and to my relatives and family in general.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

My profound gratitude and sincere appreciation goes to the creator and the
sustainer of the universe Almighty Allah who has given me the grace for
successful completion of my studies at Galtima Mai Kyari College of health
sciences and technology Nguru, Yobe State.

5
My appreciation goes to my lovely caring respectful and unforgettable parents
Mal. Muhammad Algoni and Malama Kaltume Inna Mohammed for their prayers
advice encouragement and motivation given to me throughout my lifetime which
has brought me to this level. May Allah (S.W.A) bless them abundantly.

I also wish to appreciate and thank to my humble supervisor Mal. Moh'd Umar Ali
for his great support and tireless assistance rendered to me during the period of this
research project.

My profound thanks to the outstanding H.O.D of environmental health department

Malam Muhammad Mustapha for his hard working toward the academic strategy
accordingly, my special thanks to the provost of the college Dr. Hamisu Mai musa,
Deputy provost, Academic Secretary as well as Class coordinator in the person of
Mal. Bamai Jaji Bunu and the entire academic and Non Academic staffs of the
college may God reward them abundantly- my appreciation will not be complete
acceptable without commend Aunty Kubura Abdulhamid Nuhu and my classmate
Sani Muhammad (president) who guide me on how to write a project work,
support me with both textbook and blueprint documents, soft and hard copy, as
well as his moral advices toward the period of my study may Allah continues to
guide, help, protect and supporting them. (Ameen)

I find no word to express my whole hearted gratefulness to Aunty Kubura

Abdulhamid Nuhu and Alhaji Auwalu Garba for their financial assistance,
encouragement and moral advices may Allah abundant reward and bless you.

I will also not forget my brothers and sisters for their support given to me Hadiza
Mohammed Algoni, Mohammed Algoni, Abdulrahman Mohammed Algoni, Fatima
Mohammed Algoni, Alkali Mohammed Algoni, Adama Mohammed Algoni, Ali
Mohammed Algoni,: Issa Mohammed Algoni for their moral support has brought

6
me to this level. Thanks you all and may Almghty Allah bless you abundantly
(Ameen).

My special thanks goes to my classmates especially Sani Muhammad (M. Sani),

Sa'ad Ali, Fatima M/gari Umar, and rest of my classmates. I wishing you all the
best.

A friendship is not only doing things together and also understanding each others
motives and intention. Finally my special appreciation goes to my friends;
Classmate, Sa'adatu Idriss Abdullahi, Adamu Idriss, Ibrahim Chagwa, Zulaiha
Mohammed Kyari and Aisha Mohammed.

7
 ABSTRACT

The Problem of drug abuse has become a global issue of concern

by any responsible Government both in developed and under
developing countries. Nigeria as a country has witnessed rising
epidemic issues of substance abuse as a result of poor economic
condition which rose to increasing youth unemployment, political
crisis, ethno-religious conflict, poor policies of government to
implement the real youth empowerment program living the youth
in abject poverty, youth become a social problem and a tool for
politicians to manipulate political process. The National Drug Law
Enforcement Agency (NDLEA, 2015 Reports) has place Yobe State
as a state most affected by drug abuse in the county. Some
analysts have indicated that many energetic youth population
between50% to 60% of the Youth in Yobe State, abuse drugs
either orally or through injections which pushed them to engage
in to various social crime in the study. The study will adopted
Primary data from some selected communities in Nguru local
government, Yobe state and secondary data to be collected from
various relevant publications. The study has the following findings
most of the drugs abusers are cut across gender both male and

8
females with age range of 15-40, most of the reasons for
engaging youth in to drug abuse are frustration, poverty, lack of
proper enacted laws to empower the youth. The study has
recommended that government and society must to developed
strategy of attacking the causative factors of drug abuse like
supply points, purchasing areas and some centers for abuse
within the community to be seriously guided and controlled by the
relevant government agencies and larger community.

Keywords: Youth Involvement, drug abuse, Youth Empowerment9

Table of contents

 Cover page...................................................................................... i
 Title page.........................................................................................ii

9
  Approval page................................................................................iii
 Declaration.....................................................................................iv
 Dedication......................................................................................v
 Acknowledgement.........................................................................vi
 Abstract..........................................................................................ix

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION................................................................................ 1

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY........................................................ 1

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM..................... ............................... 4

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY……………...................

………………………. 4

1.4 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY…………………………….............. ......

…………….4

1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS………………………………….......................

……………4

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY........................................ 4

1.7 OPERATIONS DEFINITION OF TERMS…………………..............

…………... 4

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW........................................................................... 6

2.1 CONCEPT OF DRUG AND DRUG ABUSE............................................. 6

10
2.2 COMMON TYPES OF DRUGS THAT ARE USUALLY ABUSED............ 6

2.3 CAUSES OF DRUG ABUSE.................................................................... 8

2.4 EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE................................................................... 10

2.4.1 Physiological Effects of Drug Abuse............................................. 10

2.4.2 Psycho-medical Effects of Drug Abuse......................................... 12

2.4.3 Socio-economic Effects of Drug Abuse......................................... 13

2.5 PATTERN OF DRUG ABUSE.................................................................... 13

2.6 REMIDIES OF DRUG ABUSE AMING OUR YOUTHS............................... 15

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 METHODOLOGY...................................................................................... 22

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN................................................................................. 22

3.2 BRIEF HISTORY OF THE STUDY AREA.................................................. 22

3.3 POPULATION OF THE STUDY AREA...................................................... 22

3.4 SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUE.................................................. 23

3.5 RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS..................................................................... 23

3.6 PROCEDURE FOR DATA COLLECTION................................................... 23

3.7 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS................................................................. 23

CHAPTER FOUR

11
4.0 PRESENTATION AND DATA ANALYSIS................................................... 24

4.1 RESULT....................................................................................................... 24

CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 DISCUSSION.......................................................................................... 26

5.2 CONCLUSION........................................................................................ 29

5.3 RECOMMENDATION............................................................................. 29

REFERENCE.......................................... ................................................. 6

12
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Youths in every society form a vital portion of the population; their roles and
activities are fundamental in translating the ultimate goals of the community.

The issue of Drug abuse has always been an international problem because it has
never been possible to confine drugs to their place of origin. “The scale of global
drug problems generated concern as long ago as 1909 when the first international
Drug conference was convened in Shanghai. Since then, there has been an
extensive international program of legislation, lately under the auspices of the
United Nations, and between 2012 and 2015 twelve multi – lateral drug treaties
were concluded” (Ghodse and Maxwell, 2010).

13
 In Nigeria, the problem initially came to the attention of research and health
care exerts as far back as the early 2010 (Obot, 2013). In hospital – based studies,
a pattern of psychiatric morbidity implicating cannabis (Indian hemp) abuse
demonstrated by researchers of whom were psychiatrics. What the researchers
found was that high proportions of patients admitted into hospitals because of
acute psychotic reactions had histories of cannabis abuse. Most of these patients
were youth, young students, unemployed urban residents, and low – skilled
workers.

The menace of “area boys” across the towns and cities, problems of armed
robbery, delinquency among students in institutions of learning, especially
students of higher learning, indiscriminate violence in social amusement parks,
disloyalty to age mates, elders, parent and even constituted authority by
breaching its laws and orders, are some of the social vices which may be related
to drug misuse/abuse. Ignorance among the populace and lack of awareness on
the use of various drugs and their effects on the body give room for self –
medication that may lead to drug abuse.

In the word of Odejide (2013) “The history of drug abuse in Nigeria is a catalogue
of changes brought about by such factors as the civil war, unexpected oil boom
that followed with its sudden increase in Gross National Product (GNP) and rapid
Socio – economic changes and urbanization which also led to disintegration of the
family social network, and increase in drugs availability.

This is obvious as health education program is not mandatory in secondary and

University curriculum and neither is it taught to community at large? This is the
work of health personnel in the ministries of education to inculcate health

14
awareness and wholesome health practiced especially regarding drugs, drugs
usage and their effects. There is also the proliferation of patient medicine stores
where any type of drugs can be bought whether such drugs are supposed to be
over — the – counter drugs or prescription types, and at times those dispensing
the drugs lack necessary training and experience in line with pharmaceutical
security – risks to the health of the populace through the possibility of drug
misuse and abuse.

The youth influence is also counted among possible reasons that play a vital role
in drug problems of a nation. Students are seen moving about in-groups both at
school and outside the school. Most of the time their ambition is centered how to
defy school and home norms and the most available medium by which they can
do this is through the use of drugs which give them added coverage to achieve
their aims. These reasons and many other factors lead to an indiscriminate use of
drugs. Hence, the need for guidance and counseling in schools should be made
compulsory. In addition, it is expected that drug education would be considered
as part of public enlightening and the curriculum for secondary school and
universities.

Drugs have been used for pleasure, social religious and medical purpose. It is
man’s continuing desire to find cure for all the illness that afflicts him, that had
lead to the invention and discovery of more drugs. The interaction of the agent
(drug) ‘host (individual) and the environment (society culture) determine the
drug-taking behavior in town's streets, secondary school and most of the higher
institution of learning.

15
 And, drug abusers are easier to recognize, images of young men especially
students in squats injecting heroin, of the well- heeled snorting cocaine or of the
inebriate under the arches may be reinforced by television, press reports or by
walking down the streets of any large town or city. Similarly, patients with drugs
and alcohol related problems foru. much. of the day – to – day work lead in
causalities, general practice surgeries and hospitals. At a stage, those infected will
destroy and prevent them for achieving their goals and lead to death.

The future of any community, society, state or nation is tied to the character of
the youths in that particular place, area or locality. It is also said that " the youths
are the leaders of tomorrow". Therefore, responsible youth in the society
indicates responsible and brighter future of that society and reverse is the case.

The use of psychoactive substances in Nguru town yobe state northern Nigeria
is the order of the day, evidence by increase in crimes of nature, failure at
examination, abondening school and poor performance in all aspect of life etc.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE STUDY

In our society people are known to have heart problem that had made them to
adopt various majors to cope with such problem and successfully within the
confines of societal normative values. While some people take solace in lawful
ways others resort to unlawful and unhealthy majors such as the use of drugs or
psychoactive substances to the extend of abusing of drugs, hence resulting in
addiction.

Nigeria as a country has witnessed rising epidemic issues of substances abuse

as a result of poor economic condition which rose to increasing youths

16
unemployment, political crisis, ethnio-religious conflict, poor policies of
government to implement the real youth empowerment programme living the
youths abject poverty, youths become a social problem and a tool for politicians
to manipulate political process.

1.3 SIGNIFICANT OF THE STUDY

This study reveales the characteristics of drugs abuse and the problems youths
encounter as a result of drugs use. This study is significant as it provides inside in
to the pattern , types and sources of psychoactive substances use by youths. This
findings are essential as they will help in understanding the overall social and
drugs problems of the youths in BULABURIN.

1.4 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1. To identify the age group that are victims of drugs abuse

2. To identify the impact of the drugs among the youth
3. To identify the effects of the drug abuse to community

1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the age groups that are victims of drug abuse?
2. What are the impacts of the drugs among the youth?
3. What are the effects of the drug abuse to community?

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The scope of this study cover BULABURIN WARD town in Nguru local government.
The study will delimited to the nature of youths drugs abuse engagement in the
selected ward area which is " BULABURIN".

17
1.7 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

 DRUG: is a chemical substance used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or

diagnosis of disease or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-
being.
 DRUG ABUSE: Excessive use of psychoactive drugs, such as alcohol, pain
medications or illegal drugs. It can lead to physical, social or emotional
harm.
 PYSCHOACTIVE DRUG: A drug or other substance that affects how the
brain works and causes changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or
behavior.

18
 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 CONCEPTUAL REVIEW

2.1.1 Concept of Drug

Merriam-Webstar Dictionary (2019) defines drug as natural or synthetic substance

which (when taken into a living body) affects its functioning or structure, and is
used in the diagnosis, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of a disease or relief of
discomfort. Also called legal drug or medicine. A legal or medicinal drug (such as
amphetamines), however, can be harmful and addictive if misused.

The World Health Organization (WHO, 2017) defines drug as any substance
which, introduced into the living organism can modify one or more of its
functions. The presence of drugs in many civilizations goes back to time
immemorial. Greeks and Romans deified wine with the figures of Dionysus and
Bacchus, respectively. Historically, drugs have been linked to magical-religious
rituals, celebrations and social events. Gradually their use became widespread in
other contexts. Some of these substances are natural in origin, as is the case with
tobacco or cannabis. Others are the result of chemical processes carried out using
natural products, like what occurs with alcoholic beverages, which are obtained
from the fermentation or distillation of grain or fruit juice. Drugs are also produced
artificially. This is the case for drugs for psychiatric use or for synthetic drugs.

19
Several criteria have been used when classifying drugs. Based on compliance with
laws, drugs are classified as legal (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, coffee, hypnotics,
sedatives, inhalants, etc.) and illegal (e.g., opiates cannabis, cocaine, synthetic
drugs, hallucinogens, etc.). There has also been a differentiation between soft and
hard drugs, although currently that distinction is rarely used because of its scant
utility and the fact that it can give rise to the erroneous interpretation that so-called
soft drugs are not quite detrimental to health. Another classification criterion is
based on the effect produced in the central nervous system (CNS).

Thus, Chalout (1971) proposed a typology that distinguishes between drugs that
are depressants, stimulants and perturbers of the CNS.

The definition of drug and addictive behavior is related to other basic terms. The
first involves distinguishing between the use and abuse of a substance. Drug use is
a drug consumption that does not negatively impact health. Drug consumption
becomes abusive at the appearance of dependence, which is defined as the set of
physiological, behavioral and cognitive manifestations in which the use of a drug is
a priority for the individual. This term is usually linked to tolerance, or the need to
consume more of a substance to achieve the effects of previous consumption.

2.1.2 Concept of Drug Abuse

Okoye (2001) defined drug as a substance that could bring about a change in the
biological function through its chemical actions. It is also considered as a
substance that modifies perceptions, cognition, mood, behaviour and general body
functions (Balogun, 2006).

According to Fawa (2003), “Drug is defined as any substance, which is used for
treatment or prevention of a disease in man and animals. Drug alters the body
functions either positively or otherwise depending on the body composition of the

20
user, the type of drug used, the amount used and whether used singly or with other
drugs at the same time”.

Sambo (2008) viewed that “chronic use of substances can cause serious,
sometimes irreversible damage to adolescent’s physical and psychological
development. The use of drugs could be beneficial or harmful depending on the
mode of use.

NAFDAC (2000) as cited by Haladu (2003) explained the term drug abuse as
excessive and persistent self-administration of a drug without regard to the
medically or culturally accepted patterns. It could also be viewed as the use of a
drug to the extent that it interferes with the health and social function of an
individual. World Book Encyclopedia (2004) defined drug abuse as the non-
medical use of a drug that interferes with a healthy and productive life Manbe
(2008) defined drug abuse as the excessive, maladaptive or addictive use of drugs
for non-medical purpose.

Abdulahi (2009) viewed drug abuse as the use of drugs to the extent that interferes
with the health and social function of an individual. In essence, drug abuse may be
defined as the arbitrary overdependence or mis-use of one particular drug with or
without a prior medical diagnosis from qualified health practitioners. It can also be
viewed as the unlawful overdose in the use of drugs (Katcher, 1993).

The American psychology Association (A.P.A) (1980) sees substance abuse as

a pattern of pathological use, resulting in impairment in physical , social and
occupational functioning and lasting for at least one month. A pattern of
pathological use, resulting in impairment in physical, social and occupational
functioning and lasting for at least one month. A pattern of pathological use

21
involves use for pleasure and avoidance of pains and disregard for delirious
effect (temporary or permanent madness) on health (White, 1998).

The world Head Organization (1980) said that” Drug dependence is a stage of
physical or psychic dependence on drug arising in a person following
administration of drugs on periodic or continuous basis. This is the type of
abuse that is characterized by the need for marked increased amount of
substance to achieve desirable effects and development of dysphonic reaction
following cessation or reduction in intake of the substance”

2.1.3 Historical Perspective of Drug Abuse

Since the early times, herbs, leaves and plants have been used to heal and control
diseases. The use of drugs in itself does not constitute any danger, because drugs
correctly administered have been a blessing.

Mind-altering substances have been a part of the human experience since the
beginning of civilization. Many of the psychotropic effects enjoyed by recreational
drug users today were sought by ancient civilizations as a means of increasing their
chances of survival (Saah, 2005).

Ancient civilizations also realized, however, that it was possible to enjoy and
become addicted to certain substances. Five thousand- year-old Egyptian records
report that individuals suffering from alcohol addiction were often cared for in the
private homes of people who provided treatment. Records from ancient Greek and
Roman sources recommended that alcoholics receive treatment in “public or
private asylums” (White, 1998).

22
Drug use tends to begin at early stage. Survey of rural blacks in America
reported the usage of Alcohol, tobacco , Marijuana and agarittes by the age of
ten and cocaine by the age of eleven Okwumba (1989).

Alcoholic beverages have been consumed for centuries and, in one form or
another, are intricately linked to local culture in many parts of the world. Alcohol
is a central nervous system depressant and its consumption leads to euphoria,
relaxation, and disinhibition. For that reason, its use can lead to symptoms of
psychological and physical dependence and result in development of alcohol use
disorders (AUDs) ranging from heavy drinking to alcoholism. The long-term
consequences of AUDs can have dire effects on physical health, the most severe of
which include liver failure and cancers. In addition to the physical effects, AUDs
can lead to social and behavioral changes, such as violence, aggressiveness, and
extensive risk-taking. AUDs have also been shown to negatively affect adherence
to medications, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), thereby exacerbating the
complications from HIV infection (White, 1998).

While addiction treatment services focused predominantly on alcohol in the

nineteenth century, there was a burgeoning interest in the treatment of other drugs
(Stolberg, 2006). It is important to note that the use of psychotropic drugs was
legal in the United States until the enactment of the Harrison Act in 1914. The
availability of drugs (especially opiates and cocaine) greatly increased during this
time period, resulting in the first drug epidemic. Physicians with experience in
treating patients with drug addictions (usually to opiates) began discussing
addiction in terms of disease rather than moral failure (White 1998).

More women than men used psychotropic drugs during this time period, most
likely because opiates were the popular treatment for “female” maladies such as

23
menstruation and hysteria. Opiate addicts in the nineteenth century were, more
often than not, educated white women of a higher socioeconomic status. Due to the
stigmatization of substance abusers, especially during the female-driven
temperance movement, women often hid their substance use and abuse from their
family and friends. When women did seek out treatment, the reported ailment was
usually of a physical or psychological nature (White 1998).

During the second half of the nineteenth century, several coinciding circumstances
provided the perfect milieu for the sale of “miracle cures” for addiction. Miracle
cures were usually in the form of a medication that could be taken for a short
period of time for the successful treatment of alcohol (e.g., Mickey Finn Powders,
White Star Secret Liquor Cure, and the Hay-Litchfield Antidote), hangovers (e.g.,
Alka-Nox, Wink, and Sober-Up), tobacco (e.g., Nicotol, Tobacco Redeemer, and
Gustafson’s Tobacco Remedy), or other psychotropic substances (e.g., Mrs.
Baldwin’s Home Cure for Cocaine, St. Anne’s Morphine Cure, and Weatherby’s
Opium Antidote). A variety of tonics and syrups consisting of various mixtures of
alcohol, opium, morphine, and cocaine promised to cure any addiction in the
privacy of one’s own home at a fraction of the cost of institutional treatment
(White 1998).

2.1.4 Types of Drug Abuse

In Nigeria, the most common types of abused drugs according to NAFDAC

(2000) as cited by Haladu (2003) are categorized as follows:

i. Stimulants: These are substances that directly act and stimulate the central
nervous system. Users at the initial stage experience pleasant effects such as
energy increase. The major source of these comes from caffeine substance.

24
 ii. Hallucinogens’: These are drugs that alter the sensory processing unit in the
brain. Thus, producing distorted perception, feeling of anxiety and euphoria,
sadness and inner joy, they normally come from marijuana, LSD etc.
iii. Narcotics: These drugs relive pains, induce sleeping and they are addictive.
They are found in heroin, codeine, opium etc.
iv. Sedatives: These drugs are among the most widely used and abused. This is
largely due to the belief that they relieve stress and anxiety, and some of
them induce sleep, ease tension, cause relaxation or help users to forget their
problems. They are sourced from valium, alcohol, promotazine, chloroform.
v. Miscellaneous: This is a group of volatile solvents or inhalants that provide
euphoria, emotional disinhibition and perpetual distortion of thought to the
user. The main sources are glues, spot removers, tube repair, perfumes,
chemicals etc.
vi. Tranquilizers: They are believed to produce calmness without bringing
drowsiness, they are chiefly derived from Librium, Valium etc.

2.2 Empirical Review

Several researches were conducted related to the influence of Drug Abuse on

Adolescent. The few selected and reviewed by the researcher are as follows:

Myers (2006) conducted a study which aimed at providing surveillance

information about the extent and consequences of alcohol and other drug (AOD)
use by adolescents for three sentinel sites in South Eastern Nigerian. From 1997 to
2001, data was gathered from multiple sources, including specialist treatment
centres, trauma units, school students, rave party attendees, and arrestees. Since the
start of the surveillance, an increasing proportion of South African adolescents
were using AODs. This survey points to high levels of alcohol misuse among high

25
school students, with alcohol being the most common substance of abuse.
Cannabis was the most frequently reported illicit drug of abuse among adolescents.

A study carried out by Mwenesi (1996) on rapid assessment of drug abuse in

Nigeria revealed that the problem of drug abuse in Nigeria is larger than expected,
having permeated all strata of society, youth and young adults being the most
affected groups. The other main findings of the study were that the abuse of
"social" (alcohol, tobacco, marijuana) and illicit (cannabis, heroin, cocaine,
mandrax) drugs was rising perceptibly, and that solvents were being increasingly
abused, and not only by the youths. The drugs are used, for example, to increase
the potency of illicit local brews. Cough mixtures have entered the list of drugs
being abused by the youth. Easy availability of dependence-producing drugs is one
of the main causes of the upward trend in drug abuse in Kenya. This study
however does not focus on drug abuse among university students which is the
focus of the present study.

In a survey conducted by NACADA team (2007) on drug abuse among the young
people aged between 10 and 24 years, significantly, it was observed that the use of
alcohol, bhang and miraa had indigenous roots. The team explored available
support and recommended interventions to prevent or treat substance abuse. The
survey team demonstrated that substance abuse was widespread, affected the youth
mostly, but also cut across all social groups; alcohol, tobacco, bhang and miraa
were the substances most often abused, and the youth were more and more abusing
imported, illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, and mandrax. At the same
time, the survey revealed that, though evidence demonstrates that a number of non-
students to a large extent engaged in substance abuse, the majority of the students
who abused substances were in secondary schools and universities. Such students
who mainly come from rich or middle-class families entertained the falsehood that

26
substance use enabled a student study for long hours. The survey revealed that
while substance abuse by the youths ranges from the increasing use of illegal and
hard drugs to legal and soft substances, the youths mostly abuse four substances in
this order: alcohol, tobacco, bhang and inhalants (Kaguthi, 2004).

A study carried out by Ahmed (2008) on drug dependency and abuse in Nasarwa
State secondary schools in Lafia Educational Zone showed that the problem of
drug abuse is not limited to western societies and is fast becoming a big challenge
in the developing world. The study traces the use of drugs from medieval times for
religious and social purposes to the 19th Century when problems emanating from
drug abuse have become apparent. The study goes on to look at drug abuse among
secondary school students in Lafia Educational Zone and the reasons for the same,
namely easy availability of drugs, peer group pressure, age factor, curiosity,
parental influence, availability of cash and high handedness of school
administrators. This study unlike the others reviewed came up with strategies for
intervention. It also identified alcohol as the most abused drug and peer group
pressure as the main reason for abuse of alcohol. The study also investigated the
effects of drug abuse and identified some as aggressive behavior, depression and
anxiety, irritability, memory loss and decreased confidence among others (Ahmed,
2008).

Two studies carried out among Tertiary Institutions in Delta State found that while
up to 10% of the female students experimented with cannabis, only male students
tended to become regular users (Otieno and Ofulla, 2009). In this study 58% of the
males and 57% of the females had at sometime taken alcohol, 32% of the males
and 10% of the females had at sometimes taken cannabis, and 24% of the males
and 26% of the females had at sometimes in their lives taken other drugs, that

27
included petrol sniffing, chlordiazepoxide and other minor tranquillizers,
amphetamines and methaqualone (Haworth, 2001).).

In Adamawa, a study by Kangi (1997) noted that among the secondary school
students, 19% of the secondary school students and about 35% of the students in
tertiary institutions including the medical school smoked cigarettes. This was
attributed to a lot of tobacco products being advertised in relation to style/fashion;
and due to peer influence. The mean initiation age for smoking was 13.4 years with
a range from 6 to 22 years in Jinja district (Lukwiya, 2000). In a cross-sectional
study carried out among 2789 high school students in Yola, in 2002 among 13-15
year olds it was found that 17.5% reported to have smoked tobacco, with 37.9% (n
= 148) of them trying or starting smoking before the age of 10.

A preliminary survey of drug abuse was conducted among University Students

students in Bayelsa State and the results of the study confirmed that drug abuse
was quite prevalent among unit school students (Acuda, 1981). For instance, up to
10% of students drunk alcohol more than three times a week, 16% smoked
cigarettes more than three times a week, and nearly 14% had smoked cannabis
(bhang) and 16% admitted taking other drugs especially tranquillizers in order to
feel high. The study revealed that the problem was more acute in urban schools
compared to rural schools. A cross sectional study to determine the prevalence of
smoking and to investigate factors that may influence smoking behavior in 311
secondary school students in Bayelsa found that a total of 2246 (70.1%) were ever
smokers out of which 38.6% were males and 17.9% females. In this study,
experimentation with drugs started at 5 years of age, and regular smoking at 10
years. The majority of the students 72.2% started at between age 12 and 16 years
(Kwamanga, Odhiambo, and Amukoye, 2003).

28
2.2.1 Causes of Drug Abuse

There are several causes of drug abuse among youths in Nigeria, according to
Yusuf ( 2018) and associates advanced some of the causes as follow;

1. EXPERIMENTAL CURIOSITY: curiosity to experiment the unknown facts

about drugs thus motivates adolescents into drug use. The first experience
in drug abuse produces a state of arousal such as happiness and pleasure
which in turn motivate them to continue.
2. PEER GROUP INFLUENCE: peer pressure plays a major role in influencing
many adolescents into drug abuse. This is because peer pressure is a fact of
teenage and youth life. As they try to dependless on parents, they show
more dependency on their friends.
3. LACK OF PARENTING SUPERVISION: many parents have no time to
supervise their sons and daughters. Same parents have little or no
interaction with family members, while others put pressure on their
children to pass exam or perform better in their studies. These phenomena
initialize and increases drug abuse
4. PERSONALITY PROBLEMS DUE TO SOCIO- ECONOMIC CONDITIONS:
adolescents with personality problems arising from social conditions have
been found to abuse drugs. The social and economic status of most
Nigerians is below average. Poverty is widespread, broken homes and
unemployment is on the increase, therefore our youths roam the streets
looking for employment or resort to begging. These situations have been
aggravated by lack of skills, opportunities for training and re- training and
lack of committed action to promote job creation by private and

29
 community entrepreneurs. Prostration arising from these problems lead to
recourse in drug abuse for temporarily removing the tension and problems
arising from it.
5. THE NEED FOR ENERGY TO WORK FOR LONG HOURS: the increasing
economic deterioration that leads to poverty and disempowerment of the
people has driven many parents to send their children out in search of a
means of earning something for contribution to family income. These
children engage in hawking, bus conducting, head loading, scavenging,
serving in food canteens etc and are prone to drug taking so as to gain
more energy to work for long hours.
6. AVAILABILITY OF DRUGS: in many countries, drugs have dropped in prices
at supplies have increased.
7. THE NEED TO PREVENT THE OCCURRENCE OF WITHDRAWAL Symptoms: if
a drug is stopped, the user experiences what is termed " withdrawal
symptoms". Pain, anxiety, excessive sweating and shacking characterise
such symptoms. The inability of the drug user to tolerate the symptoms
motivates him to continue.
8. ADVERTISEMENTS: youth are sensitive to advertisement and copy quickly.
The glamour in advertising alcohol and cigarettes smoking make the youth
want to be the way the advert depicts.
9. SOCIAL PATHOLOGIES;Such as unemployment and parental deprivation.
10.EMOTIONAL And PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS; such as anxiety, prostration,
and economic depression people always take drug or drink alcohol in order
to forget their problem when they're provoked.

2.2.2 Signs and Symptoms of Drug Abuse

30
According to Adolescents Health Information Project AHIP (2001) the following
are signs and symptoms of drug abuse. They are:

a. Signs of Drug Used and Drug Paraphernalia

i. Possession of drug related paraphernalia such as pipes, rolling paper, small

decongestant
ii. Possession of drugs, peculiar plants or bolts, seeds of leaves in ashtrays or
clothing pockets.
iii. Odour of drugs, smell of incense or other cover up scents.

b. Identification with Drug Culture

i. Drug related magazines, slogans on clothing

ii. Hostility in discussing drugs

c. Signs of Physical Deterioration

i. Memory lapses, short attention span, difficulty in concentration.

ii. Poor physical coordination, slurred or incoherent speech; unhealthy
appearance, indifference to hygiene and grooming.
iii. Bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils.

d. Changes in Behaviour

i. Distinct downward performance in school or place of work.

ii. Increased absenteeism or tardiness.
iii. Chronic dishonesty, lying; cheating and stealing.
iv. Trouble with the police and other law enforcement agencies
v. Change of friends, evasiveness in talking about new ones.

31
vi. Increasing and inappropriate anger, hostility, irritability, sectraveness etc.
vii. Reduce motivation, energy, self-discipline, self esteem etc.

2.2.3 ffects of Drug Abuse

Youths who are addicted to drug use and persistently abuse the substances
often experience a variety of problems. Some of problems range from
psychological inhibition and a number of psychological disorders " like academic
difficulties, health- related problems, including mental health"
(Murray,et.al,2008). Others are social maladjustment which include; poor peer
relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system, as well as
consequences for family members, the community and the entire society at
large). Again,et.al.(n.d.) outline the following as specific effect of drug abuse
among youths in Nigeria:

 PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE

 PSYCHO-MEDICAL EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE
 SOCIO/ECONOMIC EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE

1. PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE:

a) Methamphetamine effects result in " wired sleeplessness for days and

weeks at a time, total lose of appetite, extreme weight loss, dilated pupils,
excited, talkative, deluded Sense of power, depression, loss of control,
shaking, unusually sweating, aggression, violence, dizziness, mood changes,
blurred vision, mental confusion agitation"(Murray,etc.al,2008).
b) Ecstasy effects cause " changes in mental and physical stimulation, latered
perception of sound, light, touch. Stimulation of physical energy with

32
 related decrease in appetite and increase in body temperature. Increase in
emotional response and sensual reactions. Teeth clenching, muscles
craping, nausea, chills and sweating. Body may over heat which can lead to
fatalities"(Yusuf,et.al.2018).
c) Cocaine effects lead to impaired thinking, confused, anxious, depressed,
Short tempered, panic attacks, suspiciousness, dilated pupils, sleeplessness,
loss of appetite, decreased sexual drive, restlessness, irritability, very
talkative, scratching, hallucinations, paranoia).
d) Inhalants effects lead to" short-term euphoria, giggling, stlliness, dizziness,
followed by headache and fainting or unconsciousness. Long- term use:
memory loss, emotional instability, impairment of reasoning, slurred
speech, clumsy, staggering gait, eye plutter, tremors, hearing loss, loss of
sense of smell, and the escalating of stages of brain atrophy.
e) Heroin effects result in " chemically enforce euphoria, a dreamlike state
similar to sleep in which the person can drift off for minutes or hours at a
time. For long time abusers, heroin may act like a stimulant, and they can
perform a normal daily routine.
f) Marijuana effects can cause compulsive eating, blood shot and squinty red
eyes (may have trouble keeping them open), dry mouth, excessive and
uncontrollably laughter, forgetfulness, short-term memory loss, extreme
lethargy, delayed motor skills, occasionally paranoia, hallucinations,
laziness, lack of motivation, stupidity, sickly sweet smell on body, hair and
clothes, and strong mood changes and behaviors when the person is "
High".

33
 g) Depressants/tranquilizers and barbiturates decreased inhibition, slowed
motor coordination, lethargy, relaxed muscles, staggering gait, poor
judgement, slow or uncertain reflexes, disorientation, slurred speech
( Yusuf,et.al.2018).

2. PSYCHO-MEDICAL EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE

a) Academic effects of drug abuse: declining grades, absenteeism from school

and other activities, and increased potential for dropping out of school are
problems associated with adolescent substance abuse. Hawkins, etc.al.
(1997) site research indicating that a low level of commitment to education
and higher truancy rates appear to be related to substance use among
adolescents.
b) Medical effects of drug abuse: drug abuse not only weaken the immune
system but is also linked to risky behaviors like needle sharing and unsafe
sex. The combination greatly increases the likelihood of acquiring HIV/AIDS,
hepatitis and many other injectious diseases. Transmission of HIV/AIDS
primarily occurs through exposure to body fluids of an infected person
during sexual contact or through sharing of unsterile drug injection
equipment. Many substance-abusing youth engage in behavior that places
them at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS or other sexual transmitted diseases.
This may include the actual use of psychoactive substances ( particularly
those that are injected) or behavior resulting from poor judgement and
impulse control while experiencing the effects of mood-altering substances.
c) Drug abuse can lead to a variety of respiratory problems. Smoking
cigarettes, for example, has been shown to cause bronchitis, emphysema

34
 and lung cancer. Marijuana smoke may also cause respiratory problems.
The use of some drugs may also cause breathing to slow, block air from
entering the lungs or exacerbate asthma symptoms. Cardiovascular
diseases, strokes, cancer, HIV/ AIDS, hepatitis and lung disease can all be
affected by drug abuse.
d) Physical health: injuries due to accidents ( such as car accidents), physical
disabilities and diseases, and the effects of possible overdoses are among
the health-related consequences of teenage of substance abuse.
Disproportionate numbers of youth involved with alcohol and other drugs
face and increased risk of death through suicide, monicide, accident, and
illiness ( the drug abuse warning network DAWN in Murray, et.al,2008).
e) Mental health: mental health problems such as depression, developmental
lags, apathy, withdrawal, and other psychosocial dysfunctions frequently
are linked to substance abuse among adolescents, substance- abusing
youths are at high risk than nonusers for mental health problems, including
depression, conduct problems, personality disorders, suicide told,
attempted suicide, and suicide.

3. SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE

a. Peers: substance- abuse, youths often are alienated from and stigmatized
by their peers. Adolescents using alcohol and other drugs also often
disengage from school and community activities, depriving their peers and
communities of the positive contributions they might otherwise have
made.

35
 b. Family: in addition to personal adversities, the abuse of alcohol and other
drugs by youth may result in family crisis and jeopardize many aspect of
family life, sometimes resulting in family dysfunction.
c. Social and economic costs related to youth drug abuse are high. They result
from the financial losses and distress suffered by alcohol and drug related
crime victims, increased burdens for the support of adolescents and young
adults who are not able to become self- supporting, and greater demands
for medical and other treatment services for this youths ( ASHTON, SITED IN
YUSUF, et.al.2018).

2.2.4 PATTERN OF DRUG ABUSE:

According to the Townsends(2006) there are many ways and patterns in which
drug addicts or abusers used among them are smoking, injecting, huffing bagging
and orally/sewing.

1) Smoking; drugs commonly used in this method are stimulants like cocaine.
Cannabis like tetra hydro cannabinols, marijuana, hashish and hashish oil,
hallucinogens, phencyclidine etc.
2) Parenteral: these include intramuscular and intravenous. In intravenous
usually veins in the ante cubital space are used, but as vein membranes
breakdown and scleroscs other veins are selected for injection. The needles
are frequently passed from one user to another. Infections including
acquired immunnodeficiency symdrome have been relatively common.
Drugs commonly used in this way are heroine, morphine, amphetamine,
phencyclidine, marijuana etc.

36
 3) Hupping; is a procedure in which a rag socked with the substance is applied
to the mouth and noise and the vapours breathed in. Substance used by
this way is aerosol, propellants, fluorinated, hydrocarbon, nitro-oxide
( indeodorants and hair spray. Paint, cookware, coating, products) solvents
like gasoline, kerosene, nail polish remover, typewriter, correction fliud,
cleaning, solutions, lighter fluid.

Paint thinner and glue. Inhalant substances are readily available, legal and
inexpensive. These three factors make inhalants the drug of choice among poor
people and among children and young adults. Use may begin by ages 9-12 and
pick in adolescent ages; it is less common after age 35 ( APA 2000).

4) Oral/Chewing: examples of substances that fall under this category are

stimulants like amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, Methamphetamine,
caffeine, and nicotine. Depressants like alcohol, diazepam (valium),
chlordiazepoxide(librium). Cannabis like hashish and marijuana.
5) Bagging: is another method of substances administration in which the
substance is placed in a paper or plastic bag and inhaled from the bag by
the user? They may also inhale directly from the container or sprayed in the
mouth or noise example solvents like gasoline, kerosene, nail polish
remover, typewriter, correction fliud, cleaning solutions, lighter fluid, paint,
paint thinner and glue.

2.2.5 REMEDIES TO DRUG ABUSE AMONG OUR YOUTHS

In order to address the public health, and social problems resulting from abuse
of drugs, all stakeholders in nigeria must work together to minimize or reduce the

37
scourge of drug abuse among the youths. Especially, the following strategies must
be adopted:

1) Establishment of family education on drugs: the family is the nucleus of the

social organization. Parents should give their children appropriate
education on drug use. They should be encouraged by health authorities to
offer family education on drug abuse to their children. They should inform
them of the dangers of drug abuse and dependants on their health, society,
and the nation. Parents must spend time to inculcate moral values and
their children. Undo struggle for economic survival should not be a
justification for parents to neglect their role in the proper upbringing of
their children. It is only when parents spend ample time with their children
that they could really notice negative vices and quickly nip such in the bud.
2) Tackling the problem of unemployment in the country is relevant to
reducing the menace of drug addiction among the youth in our society.
According to a recent world bank statistics, youth unemployment rate in
Nigeria is 68%, but realistically, 80% of Nigerian youths are unemployment
with secondary school graduate mostly found among unemployed rural
population accounting for about half of this figure, while universities and
polytechnics make up the figure. What seems to be more worrisome is the
fact that the nation's universities and polytechnics continue to churn out
more than 150,000 graduate both bachelors' degrees and higher national
diploma annually and creation has been inadequate to keep pase with the
expanding working age population. Thus idleness among the youths could
easily make drug addiction a pascinating option.

38
3) Similarly public enlightenment campaigns on the harmful effects of drug
addiction must be stepped up by relevant government agencies, NGO'S,
faith based organizations, community leaders, traditional leaders, and
others. Ignorance remains a major factor in drug addiction and relevant
stakeholders must continue to enlighten the youth on the evils of drug
addiction and trafficking. Indeed, schools could drug related issues in their
curriculum. It is imperative that younger ones are told the dangers that
drug addiction pose to their health and future before they're exposed to
peer group's influence in later years.
4) Also, the national drug law enforcement agency( NDLEA) should intensify
their campaign on anti-drug in order to have a drug free society. As long as
these substances remain in circulation, the youth will always be tempted in
to consuming them. Additional, the NDLEA can equally increase the pulse of
it's effeciency through the deployment of technological devices that can
burst it seamless detection of hard drug dealers and users.
5) Again, the government should launch programmes in our secondary
schools and higher institutions of the importance of reading culture. The
program should be structured in a way that both sports and debating
competition will become part of our education culture. Thus, such well plan
program should make provisions for adequate recreation and rest which in
the long run will enhance the students reading capacity, competence and
capability to the extent that the students will no longer resort to taking
drugs in order for them to keep wake during exams.
6) Finally, it has to be acknowledge that most of this hard drugs that are
consumed by the Nigerian youths are imported in to Nigeria through

39
 porous land boarders, airports and seaports. Most of these drugs are
cleared by the corrupt regulatory agencies. For the war on drug abuse to be
won, the government must overhaul it regulatory bodies to limit the
availability of this drugs among the youths.

2.3 Theoretical Framework

Several theories could be used in explaining the relationship between youth and
drug abuse. This study however will anchor on the following theories, they are:

1. Cognitive Theory
2. Theory of Social Learning

1. Cognitive Theory

The cognitive theories of drug abuse have focused on people’s expectation for the
influence of drug they believed about the appropriateness of using drugs to cope
with distress (Marl, Baer, Donovan and Kiviahan, 1988) people who expect drug to
reduce their distress and who do not have other more adaptive means of coping
available to (such as problem solving or turning to others for support) are more
likely than others to partake in drug when they are upset and more likely to have
social problems related to drug use. For example, one study found that both men
and women who believed that drug helped them relax, awake and handle stress
better and tended to cope with stressful situations with avoidance rather than
problem solving (cooper, Russel, Skinner Frone, and Muder, 1992). Use for non-
medical reasons or when they are not physiological or pharmacologically
necessary or taken only for pleasure or alteration of mood, keeping awake when
driving, over speed when driving. Hobson (999) stressed that drug abuse is the
self-administration of excessive drugs leading to tolerance, mental confusion, the

40
impairment of the ability ‘o drive a vehicle, impaired reaction time, and poor speed
control and symptoms of abnormal behavior by the substance user.

On the basis of this theory, we could understand that those who abuse drugs do that
in order to alter their mood especially when they do not have other adptive means,
such as when they are upset.

2. Theory of Social Learning

Social learning theory explained those behaviours that are controlled by

environmental influences rather than by innate or internal forces. The leading
exponent of the concept of social learning, often called modeling, is the American
psychologist Albert Bandura (1977), who was undertaking innumerable studies
showing that when people watch others they learn many forms of behaviour, such
as sharing, aggression, cooperation, social interaction, and delay of gratification.
On the bases of this model, it could be explained that in Bandura’s classic study of
imitation learning, students who saw a model abusing drugs and be praised as
strong people in the campus tends to imitate them or those who saw the model
neither rewarded nor punished. Psychologists following Bandura stated that social
learning based on observation is a complex process that involves 3 stages;
Exposure to the responses of others; acquisition of what an individual sees; and
subsequent acceptance of the modeled acts as guide for one individual.

In this context, social learning theory explains people contact with drug abuse in
terms of continuous reciprocal interaction between cognitive, behavioral, and
environmental influences. This study adopted a cognitive theory which recognized
those who abuse drugs with intimate desire to alter their mood.

41
42
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 METHODOLOGY

Methodology gives a clear cut idea on what the researcher is carrying out his or
her research. This study was designed to assess the socio economic effects of
drug abuse among youth in Bulaburin ward Nguru local government area of yobe
state. The methodology of this study is discuss under the following research
design, history of the study area, population of the study, sample and sampling
technique, research instruments, procedure for data collection and method of
data analysis.

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

The research design for this study is a survey method. According to Nawana
(1981) survey is used to determine the status of a given problem or to seek the
view of a cross section of a given population on a certain subject. This designed
was suitable to assess the socio economic effects of drug abuse among youth in
Bulaburin ward Nguru local government area of yobe state.

3.2 BRIEF HISTORY OF THE STUDY AREA

Nguru is a local government in Yobe state Nigeria. It headquarter is in the town

of Nguru near the Hadeja river at latitude 12° 52¹ 45¹¹N to longitude 10° 27¹ 09¹¹E.
It has an area of 916km2. Nguru which has founded around 15 century is

43
pluralistic in ethnic composition; the Kanuri, Hausa-Fulani and Shuwa are the
major ethnic groups. Others include Yoruba, Igbo and Bade.

3.3 POPULATION OF THE STUDY AREA

The population of the study cover the youth of Bulaburin ward between the age
of 15-45.

3.4 SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUE

Since national population commission doesn't render figures at ward level,

population data covering the ward isn't available. The entire ward (Bulaburin) is
divided into six 6 settlements out of which 3 settlements are selected using
purposive sampling. In each settlement, 1 street is selected for in-depth
examination.

150 questionnaires were to be designed in order to acquire general and specific

information on Social-Economic effect of drug abuse among youths living in the
ward.

3.5 RESEARCH INSTRUMENT

The instrument used for this study include the distribution of questionnaire in
order to obtain the required information to determine the require information on
the topic under study.

Validity of the Instrument

44
The instrument was given to two facilitators including the project supervisor for content and face
validity. The view of the validators will be use to improve the content and quality of the
questionnaire

3.6 PROCEDURE FOR DATA COLLECTION

Method of Data Collection

The method of data collection will be by the use of structured questionnaire. The questionnaires
will be distributed to get adequate information from the respondents.

3.7 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS

The data collected were arranged properly and analyzed using frequently
table and percentage for better understanding.

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 PRESENTATION AND DATA ANALYSIS

45
A Questionnaires were designed and distributed to 150 respondents within the
study area, 110 out of 150 questionnaires were completed correctly and
collected, while the remaining 40 were not returned.

In analyzing the responds to the questionnaire, statistical tables showing

frequency and percentage are used. And the tables were followed with the
description analysis of the findings. Descriptive analysis is made through the
observation of data.

4.1 PRESENTATION OF DATA COLLECTED

Table 4.1: Age distribution of the respondents

AGE FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

15-25 60 54.54%

26-35 32 29.1%

36-45 18 16.36%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.1 shows that the majority with 54.54% were aged between 15-25 years,
29.1% were aged between 26-35 years and the remaining 16.36% were aged
between 37-45 years. The majority of the respondents are between aged 15- 25
years because they have high population rate in Nguru area.

Table 4.2: Sex of the respondents

46
SEX FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Male 99 90%

Female 11 10%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.2 shows that 90% of the respondents were males while 10% of the
respondents were females by gender. The majority of the respondents are males
this is because males knows more than females on drug abuse

Table 4.3: Marital status of the respondents

OPTIONS FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Married 30 27.2%

Single 79 71.8%

Divorced 1 1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.3 shows that 27.2% of the respondents were married, 71.8% of the
respondents (i.e majority) were single and 1% of the respondents were divorced.
Majority of the respondents were single this is because they have more leisure
time than others.

Table 4.4: Occupation of the respondent

OCCUPATION FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Student 42 38.2%

47
OCCUPATION FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Civil servant 30 27.3%

Business man 15 13.6%

Other specify (fisherman's) 23 20.9%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.4 shows that 38% of the respondents were students which is the majority,
27.3% of the respondents were civil servant, 20.9% of the respondents were
farmers and 13.6% of the respondents were business men. Majority of the
respondents are students this is because majority of the youth of Nguru aged
between 15-25 years are students.

Table 4.5: What are the commonly abused substances used?

VARIABLES FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Alcohol 5 4.54%

Cigarate 20 18.2%

Marijuana 49 44.54%

Cough mixture 36 32.72%

Other specify 0 0

TOTAL 110 100%

48
Table 4.5 shows that the higher percentage of the respondents (49) 44.54%
agreed that marijuana is substance that is commonly abused, (36) 32.72% of the
respondents viewed cough mixture, (20) 18.2% of the respondents opined
cigarette while the lowest percentage (5) 4.54% of the respondents say alcohol.

Table 4.6: What do you see is the reason behind substances abuse?

VARIABLES FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Reduce stress 40 36.36%

Ability to increase performance 25 22.72%

Poverty and unemployment 15 13.63%

Motivation 10 9.09%

Frustration 20 18.2%

Other specify 0 0

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.6 shows that youth engagement in drugs abuse which they ideally
mentioned reduction of stress with 36.36%, followed by 22.72% of the
respondents says that youth were engaged in drugs abuse in order to increase
their ability of performance,13.63% of the respondents indicate that drugs abuse
is as a result of poverty and unemployment, 9.09% of the respondents opined due
to motivation while 18.2% of the respondents agree that youth engaged in drug
abuse as a result of frustrations.

Table 4.7: Which age group do you think mostly indulge in druge abuse?

49
AGE GROUP FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

15-25 51 46.36%

26-35 39 35.45%

36-45 20 18.2%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.7 shows that 46.36% of the respondents which is the majority says that
youth between 15-25 years are mostly indulge in drugs abuse, 35.45% of them
indicate youth between 26-35 years, and the minority of the respondents with
18.2% opined youth between 36-45 years as who are mostly indulge in drugs
abuse.

Table 4.8: Do you think most of the criminal act are associated problems of drug
abuse?

RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 100 90.9%

No 9 8.1%

No idea 1 1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.8 shows that 90.9% of the respondents agreed that most of the criminal
act are problems associated with drug abuse,8.1% of the respondents said No and
1% of the respondents have no idea.

50
Table 4.9: Is it true that substances abuse causes accident?

RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 100 90.9%

No 9 8.1%

No idea 1 1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.9 shows that 90.9% of the respondents agreed that drug abuse causes
accidents,8.1% of the respondents don't agreed and 1% of the respondents have
no idea.

Table 10: Respondent views on type of accident caused by drug abuse

RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Road traffic accident 101 91.8%

No idea 9 8.2%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.10 shows that 91.8% of the respondents said road accident is the accident
that is caused by drug abuse while 8.2% of the respondents have no idea.

Table 4.11: Is true that drug abuse among students affect their academic
performance?

51
RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 100 90.90%

No 10 9.1%

No idea 0 0

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.11 shows that 90.90% of the respondents were agreed that drug abuse
affect students academic performance while 9.1% of them were not agreed.

Table 4.12: What are the socio-economic consequences of drug abuse among
youth in Nguru town?

RESPONDENT VIEWS FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Mental illness 55 50%

Physical Health illness 20 18.2%

Criminal related act 35 31.8%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.12 shows that 50% of the respondents positively responded that mental
illness is the socio economic consequences of drug abuse, 31.8% of the
respondents said criminal related act are problems associated with drug abuse
and 18.2% of the respondents goes for physical Health illness.

Table 4.13: Do you think mental illness is an effect of drug abuse?

52
RESPONDENT VIEWS FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 100 90.90%

No 10 9.1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.13 shows that 90.90% of the respondents were agreed that mental illness
is an effect of drug abuse while 1% were not agreed. Majority of the respondents
agreed that mental illness is an effect of drug abuse because of the above reason.

Table 4.14: Do you see living with none of the parents or living with one parent
causes drug abuse?

RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 80 72.7%

No 29 26.3%

No idea 1 1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.14 shows that the respondent views on youth living with none or living
with one parent as a cause of drug abuse has 72.7% with is the majority, 26.3% of
the respondents were not agreed and minority of the respondents with 1% don't
have idea.

Table 4.15: Do you aware that drug abuse causes cancers?

53
RESPONDENT FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

Yes 100 90.90%

No 0 0

No idea 10 9.1%

TOTAL 110 100%

Table 4.15 shows that 90.90% of the respondents are aware of drug abuse causes
cancers, while 9.1% of the respondents don't have idea.

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 DISCUSSION OF FINDING, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 DISCUSSION OF FINDING

54
.

5.2 CONCLUSION

In line with the finding of the study and the discussion, the researcher makes the
following conclusions. Drug abuse is a socio-economic problem basically
associated with young people. These young people involve themselves in taking
hard drugs and excessive taking of some drugs which may alter the body system
or may cause damage to the health. Drug abuse is very common among youths,
they take drugs, to get high or to make them feel big or for them to just feel
among or fit into the environment while some take this drugs through the
influence of friends or other people around them. Drug is mostly abused by male
youths than female.

5.3 RECOMMENDATION

The socio-economic effect of drug abuse among youths in Bulaburin, Nguru, Yobe
state as the study has revealed is one thing that does nobody or any nation any

55
good. That being the case, the questions, the arises, what then can be done to
this thorny issue of drug use and abuse among our youths. Perhaps, the following
suggestions might be of help to policy makers administrators in this very fight
against use and abuse of drugs among undergraduates. An idle mind, they say is
the devil‟s workshop, undergraduates have to be kept busy realizing their
potentials in rewarding and interesting manner. Otherwise their potentials or
energies which is at a peak in these formalize years may be vented through
mischievous channels like drug taking which harm both society and the individual.
Greater availability of good educational activities, material and leadership
opportunities for youths are necessary to keep the youths happily busy. This
would help a lot towards solving the drug abuse problem. Government should set
up rehabilitation centres to aid victims of drug abuse.

Further to this, there is also the need for agency in combating the social
disintegration by way of public awareness and education. Community
organizations and health and social agencies must identify high-risk groups and
educate the public about the dangers of drug use, emphasizing vital importance
of drug free life.

A social environment should be created which would discourage drug abuse, with
the schools and Universities educating undergraduates on the dangers of drug
abuse and the value of life. The schools and Universities should formulate policies
to prevent drug abuse and should also hold seminars for parents and families to
alert them early to the symptoms of drug abuse in their children Pamphlets and
badges should be distributed to schools, colleges and universities. Also
entertainment and sport celebrities should also deglamorise drug abuse to add to

56
this, parents also should strive to be showing examples to their children and they
should also be wary of the company their kids keep.

Furthermore, legislation should be enacted to penalize haulage companies

especially transporters who do not implement and enforce procedure to prevent
misuse of their facilities by drug traffickers. Also, as a measure to combat drug
abuse and trafficking, the penalty for drug peddling should be made
commensurate with the peddlers profits because profits made by drug pushers
far exceed the risk, and that is why many people are going into the business.

57
 REFERENCE

1. Abdullahi Abuse Among Adolescents (2009): Strategies for School

counseling
2. The Nigerian Society of Educational psychologist, Jos: Nigerian.pp 131_136.
3. AGWUBIKE E.O, Adodo S.M, Igiehon A, Aluko K. (2000).The Effects of
caffeine (coffee) on the physicophysiolgoical variables of selected University
Athletes, Benin Journal of Educational studies; 12&13(1&2):212-9.
4. Alfonso-loeches, S.; Guerri, C. (2011).Molecular and behavioral Aspects of
the actions of alcohol on the adult and developing brain. Crit Rev Clin Lab
Sci; 48:19-47.
5. Hawkins, J.D., Kosterman, R., Maguine, E., Catalonia, R.F., and Arthur M.
(1997). Substance use and Abuse. In R.T. Ammerman & Hersen M. (Eds.)
Handbook of prevention and treatment with children and adolescents.
Intervention in the Real World Context, New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
(pp 203-236).

58
6. Murray,R.L., Chermack, S.T., Walton, M.A., Winters, J , Booth, B. M., &
Blow, F.C. (2008). Psychological Aggression, Physical Aggression, and Injury
in No partner Relationships Among Men and Women in treatment for
Substance- use Disorders. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs,
69(6),896-905.
7. School Mattazz (n.d). Drug Abuse. Retrieved July 16, 2018 from
http://WWW.schoolmattazz.com/2016/11/drug-abuse-meaning- causes-
examples/).
8. Okonza, J., Fajoju, S, Okhiku, I and Aluede O.(2009), Drug Abuse Among
Students of Ambrose Alli, European Journal of social science,10(1), pp85-92.
9. Yusuf,U.L.,Gazali,W.A.&Abdullahi,M.(2018).Drug Abuse Among youths in
Nigeria: Implication to National Development.Retrieved July 16, 2018 from
http://www.unimaid.edu.ng.
10.Anumonye, A. (1980). Drug use among Young people in Lagos. UNODC.
Bulletin on Narcotics.

59