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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano
State, Nigeria (2014 -2017)

Article in Journal of International Politics · January 2019

DOI: 10.22259/2642-8245.0103002

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Journal of International Politics
Volume 1, Issue 3, 2019, PP 42- 54
ISSN 2642-8245

The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local

Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014 -2017)
Jibrin Ubale Yahaya
Department of Political Science, Nasarawa State University, Keffi
*Corresponding Author: Jibrin Ubale Yahaya, Department of Political Science, Nasarawa State
University, Keffi, Email: [email protected]

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 Kano 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 Kano 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 Nasarawa local government, Kano 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 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 Empowerment

INTRODUCTION psychoactive drugs like marijuana, heroin and

cocaine.
The youths in Nigeria like many countries of the
world are increasingly developing addiction to The future of any community, society, state or
psychoactive substances or engage in drug nation is tied to the character of the youth in that
abuse. The National Drug Law Enforcement particular place, area or locality. It is also said
Agency (NDLEA, 2011) collected drugs use and that “The youth are the leaders of tomorrow”.
abuse data from schools, records of patients Therefore responsible youth in the society
admitted at mental health institutions for drug indicates responsible and brighter future of that
problems and interview of persons arrested for society and also the reverse is the case.
drug offences. The result showed that youths Kano state is the most populated state in
constitute the high risk group for drug abuse. Northern Nigeria with over 10 million
Friends and school mates account for about 90% populations (NPC, 2006). The use of
of the source of influence of the use and abuse psychoactive Substance in this state is the order
of various psychoactive substances. In Nigeria, of the day, evidence by increase in crimes of
alcohol and cigarette are legal substances but, different nature, failure at examination,
the two have been discovered to cause physical abandoning school and poor performance in all
damage to human bodies. It has been reported aspects of life etc.
that smoking tobacco causes 90.0% of lung
cancer, 30.0% of all cancers, and 80.0% of other Nassarawa local government is the largest,
chronic lung diseases (Sale 2008). Apart from second most populated local government Area
these health implications, according to Stephen of Kano State. One myth about the youth and
(2010), alcohol and cigarette are said to be adolescents in Nassarawa local government is
“gateway drugs” to other more potent drug and substance use evidently shown by

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

increase in crime, abandoning and Research Questions

inconsistencies in school, as well as failure in
 What are the characteristics of Youth who
examination. These reasons encouraged and
abuse drugs?
motivated the desire to investigate the
prevalence and pattern of psychoactive  What are the patterns of substance use among
substance use among the senior government Youth in Nassarawa Local Government, Kano
secondary school students of the largest local State?
government area in the middle of Kano City,
Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano  What are the sources of influence of drug use
State, Nigeria. In our society people are known among Youth in Nassarawa Local
to have had problems that had made them to Government?
adopt various measures to cope with such  What are the ways of addressing the
problems and live successfully within the problems of drugs abuse in Kano State in
confines of societal normative values. While particular and Nigeria in general?
some people take solace in lawful ways others
resort to unlawful and unhealthy measures such Significance of the Study
as the use of drugs or psychoactive substances The paper reveals the prevalence, pattern, types
to the extent of abusing of drugs, hence resulting and sources of psychoactive substances used by
in addiction. According to Edum (2006) the youth. It will also reveal the characteristics of
adolescent in our society are not left out in this, drugs abusers and the problems youth encounter
as they are either influenced by peer group as a result of drug use. These findings are
while others do so because of the easy essential as they will help in understanding the
availability of the abused substances, others also overall social, academic and drug problems of
watch on television and films and some read in the students and youth in Kano state. This
books and so try to experiment to experience the finding would be useful to the parents, teachers,
effects. The effects of specific psychoactive police and the drug law enforcement agency
substance vary depending on their mechanism (NDLEA) as well as other bodies concerned
of action, the amount consumed and the history with checking drug abuse problems in
of the user among other factors. Nassarawa LGA of Kano state and Nigeria at
large. The findings will provide a source of
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
reference for intervention programmers in Kano
The main purpose of the study is to determine state. The finding of this study will be useful to
the effect of drugs abuse among youth living in future researchers on the topic, as they will build
Nassarawa local Government, Kano State, on the strength and limitations of the study. And
Nigeria, 2014-2017. the finding of the study may spur them to form
anti-psychoactive substance use clubs and
OBJECTIVES
associations. The activities of these groups can
The paper has the general objective of reach the wider society and will assist in curbing
assessing the impact of drugs abuse among the menace of substance abuse in Nassarawa
youth living in Nassarawa local Government, LGA, Kano State and the country at large. The
Kano State, Nigeria. present study wills no doubt, spur interest for
further studies.
The Specific Objectives Has the Following
Things Scope of the Study
 Identify the characteristics of youth who use The scope of this study is delimited to on some
identified substances as abusers five selected wards in Nassarawa LGA of Kano
State, namely Hotoron Arewa, Giginyu, Kaura
 Identify the patterns of substance use among Goje, Gama and Gwagwarwa. The study will be
the youth living in Nassarawa Local delimited to the nature of youth drugs abuse
Government, Kano State. engagement in these selected study area.
 Identify the sources of influence of drug use
CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE REVIEW
among Youth in Nassarawa Local
Government, Kano State. Drug Abuse
 Identify the means of addressing the Drug abuse is the use of a mood or behavior-
problems of drugs abuse in Kano State in altering substance resulting in significant
particular and Nigeria in general. impairment or distress. Abdullahi (2009) viewed

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

drug abuse as the use of drugs to the extent that system (CNS) stimulants. http://www.cesar.
it interferes with the health and social function umd.edu/cesar/drugs/amphetamines.asp-
of an individual. Odejide (1997) opined that
It is a central nervous system stimulants that
drug abuse is the improper use or application of
affect chemicals in the brain and nerves that
drugs by a person without proper knowledge of
contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.
the drugs and without due prescription from a
They cause brain damage while combining them
qualified medical practitioner. This definition
with barbiturates is extremely dangerous
focuses on psychoactive drugs; all drugs can be
(Anumonye, 1980).
abused to the extent that it turns into addiction
when the drug user is unable to stop the use of Narcotic
drugs despite the harmful effects on users’ Narcotics are addictive drugs that reduce the
physical and emotional feelings. According to user's perception of pain and induce euphoria (a
Agwubike (1998) drugs commonly abused by feeling of exaggerated and unrealistic well-
adolescents are; Amphetamines, Anabolic being). These are drugs which include opium
steroids, alcohol, Marijuana (Cannabis or Indian and its derivatives, morphine, heroin and
hemp), cocaine, heroin, caffeine, barbiturates, codeine which provide relief and pain, anxiety
amphetamines, narcotic, inhalants, codeine and and tension. Medically they are used to relief
cough syrup; which have excitatory or pain, treat diarrhea and stop coughing (NDLEA,
inhibitory effect which are thought to enhance 1998).
performance in sport by delaying the onset of
fatigue or hasten recovery rate. Inhalants
Alcohol The inhalation of certain chemicals found in
glue, gasoline, paint thinner, fingernail, polish
Alcohol abuse causes neuro-inflammation and remover, household cement, petroleum and the
leads to myelin disruptions and white matter like produces a high, sometimes accompanied
loss; the developing adolescent brain is at by dizziness, loss of judgment and
increased risk of brain damage and other long aggressiveness (Anumonye, 1980).
lasting alterations to the brain (Alfonso-
Loeches, et al., 2011). Adolescents with an Marijuana (Cannabis or Indian hemp)
alcohol use disorder damage the hippocampal, Marijuana is locally called "Ganye" "wee-wee"
prefrontal cortex, and temporal lobes (Nixon et to mention just a few. Marijuana is the most
al., 2010).Adolescents who consume alcohol commonly used drug after tobacco and alcohol,
heavily display symptoms of conduct disorder. particularly among youths (NDLEA, 1998).
Its symptoms include troublesome behavior in
school, constantly lying, learning disabilities Codeine
and social impairments (Mc Ardle, Paul, 2007). Codeine has become a major drug abused by
Alcohol slows brain activity and muscle youths in Nigeria. Its common effects include
reaction and continued use of it can result in drowsiness and constipation. Less common are
indigestion, ulcers, degeneration of the brain euphoria, itching, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth,
and cirrhosis of the liver. orthostatic hypotension, urinary retention,
Barbiturates depression, and paradoxical coughing. It also
effects include suppresses the Central Nervous
Barbiturates are synthetic drugs used in System (CNS), constricts the vowels, causing
medicine to depress the central nervous system. constipation, nausea etc., (NDLEA, 1998).
The effects range from mild sedation to coma
and they may be used as sedatives, hypnotics or According to Odejide et al., (1987) abuse of
as part of anesthesia. Some barbiturates are used psychoactive drug is a common problem among
to relieve tension or anxiety prior to surgery. It the adolescents especially for socially
is also depressants like alcohol. They produced acceptable drugs such as alcohol and cigarettes.
light headedness, ease tension, and induce Alcohol and cigarettes are termed as gateway
relaxation and sleep. Large doses can slow vital drugs because they are the ones that welcome
body functions and can cause death (Anumonye, the adolescents into drug abuse. These drugs are
1980). mostly abused because they are readily available
(Okoza et al., 2009). Studies showed that
Amphetamines parenting has a lot of influence on early
Amphetamines are a group of synthetic initiation into use of drugs by adolescents.
psychoactive drugs called central nervous Hawkins et al., (1997) argued that children who

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

received good supervision and consistent for illicit drug use. There is evidence that for
discipline from their parents in their early years many young people, the decision to use a drug is
in life are less likely to engage in drug abuse. based on a rational appraisal process, rather than
a passive reaction to the context in which a
The use of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and other
substance is available (Boys et al., 2000;
psychoactive substances constitutes one of most
Wimberley and Price, 2000). Reported reasons
important public health problems among
vary from quite broad statements (e.g. to feel
adolescents worldwide (Oshodi et al., 2010).
better) to more specific functions for use (e.g. to
Recent studies in African countries have shown
increase self-confidence).
that the phenomenon of drug use is also
common in this continent and is becoming one EMPIRICAL LITERATURE
of the most disturbing health-related problems
among youth (Igwe et al., 2009). Studies show Causes of Psychoactive Drug Abuse
that there is an increasing incidence in the use, Substance use seems to be linked to many
and a decreasing age of onset, of these factors. Black and Matassarin-Jacobs (1993)
substances (Fatoye and Morakinyo, 2002; explains the possible causes of substance use as
Fatoye et al., 2006). Most young people begin the followings factors. These factors are likely
their use of drugs with alcohol and cigarettes to coexist.
and later progress to more dangerous substances
Biological Factors
such as cannabis and cocaine (Abiodun et al.,
1989). Several psychosocial factors have been If parents have addiction struggles, chances are
associated with drug abuse. Particularly, peer that the offspring of that family will be
pressure, social environment, broken home, detectable to addiction. . Black and Matassarin-
media portrayal of drug -use by celebrities Jacobs (1993) refers to biologic theorist’s
(Malhotra et al., 2007). Peer substance use is speculation that substance dependant people
one of the major and well-established predictors may lack naturally occurring endorphins
of adolescent drug use (Elliott, Huizinga and (chemicals in the brain) and, therefore take
Ageton, 1985). The influence of the peer group substances in a physiologic attempt to replace
is exerted via modeling and social reinforcement the missing chemicals. Probably this suggests
of nonconforming behavior (Oetting and interplay between personality features and
Donnermeyer, 1998; Elliott, Huizinga and genetic susceptibility in the individual response
Ageton, 1985; Hawkins and Catalano, 1992). to the chemical substance family role models
Previous research suggests that peer drug use who drink excessively.
influences adolescent behavior (Dishion and
Andrews, 1995)
BEHAVIORAL FACTORS
Behaviorists believe that rewards or “pay off”
In the domain of personal attributes which make
from use rein force the use of any given
adolescents vulnerable to drug use, the linkage
substance. Culturally, the acceptance of various
between depressive mood and substance use is
substance influences levels of use, e.g. a
equivocal. Some studies have found a
permissive attitude towards alcohol. Social
relationship between depressive mood and
acceptance of the offending substance is
substance (Brook, Cohen and Brook, 1998),
therefore a key issue in substance use (Mireku,
whereas other research has found no association
2002; Emenike and Ogbonna, 1995).
between illegal drug use and depression (White,
Xie, Thompson et al., 2001). In contrast, there is Occupational Factors
strong evidence suggesting that unconventional
The occupation of the person (high-stress jobs)
attitudes and behaviors (e.g., tolerance of
has a high incidence of substance use. Bar staff
deviance, delinquency) are related to adolescent
that has regular contact with alcohol and
drug use (Brook, Brook, Gordon, et al., 1990).
therefore predisposed to the use of alcohol.
There is a substantial body of literature on the
Psychodynamic Factors
reasons or motivations that people cite for using
alcohol, particularly amongst adolescent A number of psychological theories have
populations. For example, research on heavy attempted to explain how people become
drinkers suggested that alcohol use is related to substance dependent. People who are alcoholic
multiple functions for use (Edwards et al., 1972; dependent have often been viewed as
Sadava, 1975). Similarly, research with a focus individuals who easily succumb to the escape
on young people has sought to identify motives provided by alcohol. Psychoanalytic theory

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

describes people with alcohol dependency as to achieve feeling of euphoria. The drug is
having strong oral tendencies related to usually used intermittently during recreational
unresolved needs for early attachments (Frosch, gatherings. This pattern of intermittent use leads
1985), to regular use and extreme levels of tolerance.
Combining use with other substance is not
Peer Pressure
uncommon. Physical and psychological
Peer pressure is huge and many people tend to dependence leads to intense substance seeking
indulge in activities that their peers are involved behaviors, most often through illegal channels.
in so as to maintain the relationship.
According to the Townsends (2006) There are
Loneliness many ways and patterns in which drug addicts
People naturally want to feel good physically or abusers used among them are smoking,
and emotionally and they resort to drug or injecting, huffing bagging and orally/chewing.
illegal substances. Smoking
Personality Factors Drugs commonly used in this method are
Feelings of inferiority are said to be a feature. stimulants like cocaine. Cannabis like tetra
The inadequate personality use substances to hydro cannabinols, marijuana, hashish and
achieve power in the form of disinhibition, to hashish oil, hallucinogens, phencyclidine etc
relieve tension and improve self-esteem. Iron Parenteral
bar and Hooper (1993) argue that there is no one
These include intra muscular and intra venous
factor that predominates in the causation of
injection. In intravenous usually veins in the
substance use. But for each person there exists a
ante cubital space are used, but as vein
complex interaction between themselves, those
membranes break down and scleroses other
around them and the environment. It is in the
veins are selected for injection. The needles are
light of this, that Kaltenbach and Finnegan
frequently passed from one user to another.
(1997) notes that paradigms shift began to occur
Infections including acquired immunodeficiency
in which a multifactor approach becomes
syndrome have been relatively common. Drugs
acknowledged as the appropriate model.
commonly used in this way are heroine, morphine,
Duxbury (1997) states that anyone can be at amphetamine, phencyclidine, marijuana etc.
risk, however, some significant factors that
Huffing
appear to be influential other than those
addressed above include factors such as the cost Is a procedure in which a rag soaked with the
and availability of the substance (Awake!, 2005, substance is applied to the mouth and nose and
Mireku, 2002 and Duxbury, 1997). the vapors breathed in. Substance used by this
way is aerosol, propellants, fluorinated
Pattern of Psychoactive Use/Abuse
hydrocarbons, nitrous oxide (in deodorants and
Patterns of development of dependence and hair spray. Paint, cookware coating products).
abuse are described. The first pattern is one of Solvents like gasoline, kerosene, nail polish
an individual whose physician originally remover, typewriter, correction fluid, cleaning
prescribed the CNS depressants as treatment for solutions, lighter fluid.
anxiety or insomnia. Independently, the
Paint thinner and glue. Inhalant substances are
individual has increased the dosage or frequency
readily available, legal and inexpensive. These
from that which was prescribed. Use of the
three factors make inhalants the drug of choice
mediation is justified on the basis of treating
among poor people and among children and
symptoms, but as tolerance grows more and
young adults. Use may begin by ages 9 to 12
more of the medication is required to produce
and peak in the adolescent years; it is less
the desired effect. Substance – seeking behavior
common after age 35 (APA 2000)
is evident as the individual seeks prescriptions
from several physicians in order to maintain Oral/Chewing
sufficient supplies.
Examples of substances that fall under this
The second pattern, which the DSM-IV-TR category are stimulants like amphetamine,
reports is more frequent than the first, involves dextroamphitamine, methamphetamine caffeine
young people in their teens or early 20s who, in and nicotine. Depressants like alcohol, diazepam
the company of their peers, use substances that (valium), chlordizepoxide (librium).Cannabis
were obtained illegally. The initial objective is like hashish and marijuana.

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

Bagging for example walking out in front of cars,

unprotected sex, no sense of danger, believing
Is another method of substance administration in
one has powers such as being able to fly.
which the substance is placed in a paper or
plastic bag and inhaled from the bag by the Physical Problems
user? They may also inhale directly from the
The physical consequence of drug use include
container or sprayed in the mouth or nose
physical dependency leading to craving, tremor,
example Solvents like gasoline, kerosene, nail
sweats, agitation, anxiety, disorientation,
polish remover, typewriter correction fluid,
psychosis, jitters, paranoia and panic attacks,
cleaning solutions, lighter fluid paint, paint
withdrawal symptoms usually start 24-72 hours
thinner and glue
after cessation of substance use. The individual
Problem Associated With Psychoactive recovers from physical discomfort within 5-7
Substance Use days; however, the following may be suffered;
malnutrition due to poor appetite and gastro-
The use of psycho active substance has
intestinal problems: nausea, anaemia, weight
produced severe socio-political, economic and
loss, vitamin deficiency particularly vitamin
health– related problems, all over the world,
B12. Approximately 10-15 % of people with
especially in Nigeria. These problems are
alcohol problem develop cirrhosis of the liver
profound, pervasive and tragic. Mireku (2002),
due to toxic effects of alcohol. Pancreatitis and
Duxbury (1997) and Imogie (1993), discusses
general infections such as HIV/AIDS may also
the variety of effects of psychoactive substance
occur. Others may include blackouts, loss of
use, vis-à-vis physical, physiological, psychosocial
consciousness and risk of death due to overdose
and psychiatric problems. Generally, the
of psychoactive substance. Gambo (1995) states
consequences of psychoactive substance use on
that drug addiction can lead to the committing
both the individual and society can be examined
of criminal offences.
under the following headings.
Since psychoactive substance addicts are always
Psychological Problems
prepared to sustain their habit by all means.
Substance–related problems may be in various Some of them are often induced to getting
forms including, loss of control which may lead involved in theft, burglary and robbery in order
to helplessness, depression and sometimes to obtain the needed money to procure the
suicide. Anxiety attack when not using drugs substance. Psychoactive substance addicts are
leading to relapse to relieve anxiety. Low self- also relatively prone to accidents on the
esteem, feelings of inadequate and poor highways while driving vehicles. Such accidents
motivation. Memory loss and disorientation could involve other people and may lead to
following long or heavy drinking bouts. serious injuries and loss of property thus leading
Psychosis presenting in the form of delusion and to great loss to the country. The patterns of
hallucinations. Substance use, particularly in psychoactive substance use including a tendency
young individuals my precipitate the development among commercial motorcycle riders to take a
of mental illness such as schizophrenia. variety of drugs simultaneously or in a sequence
Defensiveness about behavior and often denial to obtain specific effects may become a feature.
that there is a problem (defense mechanisms: A pattern of use generally ranges from
denial and rationalization). experimental to compulsive use. Although an
individual may move back and forth among
Behavioral and Social Problem
patterns, compulsive use is indicative of
The behavioral and social course of addiction and only abstinence or a drug–free
psychoactive substance use includes difficulty status can break the pattern (Orth. Duphorne and
maintaining successful relationships, which Lisanti, 2000).
often leads to isolation, divorce and separation.
Stigma may lead to further rejection and Effect of Substance Abuse
isolation. Loss of job, home and financial The effect of substance abuse is mainly to the
difficulties may occur. The user experience individual family and the society as follows
persistent drug use despite obvious personal,
The Individual
social and physical damage. The victim will find
it difficult putting the needs of others before People who use drugs experience a wide range
self. Disinheriting due to effects of drugs may of physical effects other than those expected
feature. High-risk behaviors due to disinheriting, (Ajzan, 2005). Most of the abused substances

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

have after effects. For tobacco taken in cigarette acceptable Sedatives and anti-anxiety agents are
form, abusers are exposed to lung cancer and prescribed excessively for a variety of reasons.
other chronic illnesses (WHO, 2009). For
Adverse Social Conditions
alcohol, abusers are exposed to liver cirrhosis,
cancer and a host of other chronic illnesses (Sad Poverty, unemployment, discrimination, home
dock, 2009). Abstinence from certain drugs lessness, and lack of social and educational
results in withdrawal syndrome. For example, opportunities contribute to high rates of
heroin withdrawal syndrome causes vomiting, substance abuse.
muscle cramps, convulsions and delirium.
Environmental or Biologic Factors
Sharing hypodermic needles used to inject some
drugs dramatically increases the risk of Abuse patterns occur in families (e.g., heavy
contracting AIDS and some types of hepatitis smoking and drinking).
(Atta, 2004). Many drug users engage in Psychological Influence
criminal activities such as burglary and
prostitution to raise money to buy drug (Rocha Certain personality traits (e.g., low frustration
2009). tolerance, risk-taking behavior, and impulsivity)
may make the development of substance abuse
The Family more likely.
According to the world Drug Report (2004), Psychodynamic factors, such as anxiety or panic
20% of alcoholics face problems that affect their disorders mood disorders, and personality
jobs and misuse of money as a result of alcohol disorders, are linked with substance abuse.
consumption. According to Global Status Report
on alcohol (2007), 55% of women in Nigeria face Disabilities
domestic violence from their husbands after Physically disabled individuals have higher rates
taking alcohol (WHO, 2009). Most of the of alcoholism and problems with other substances.
abusers (children) usually become drop-outs Many individuals with disabilities have low self-
from school posing a problem to the family The esteem, chronic medical problems, and high
users pre-occupation with the substance, plus its incidence of depression.
effects on mood and performance can lead to
marital problems and poor work performance or Developmental Influence
dismissal from the work (Ajzen, 2005).Violence, Individuals who sustain parental loss (through
conflict, separation and divorce are common death, divorce, abandonment) may be predisposed
among females of alcoholics husband (World to substance abuse problems.
Drugs Report, 2004). Pregnant mother who uses
drugs have much higher rate of low- birth Children of substance-abusing parents are at
weight babies than the average especially those greater risk for becoming substance abusers.
who take cocaine and heroin. Cultural Influence
The Society Cultural beliefs influence religious rituals and
Drug users are more likely than non-users to practices that support or inhibit substance use
have occupational hazards, accidents, endangering and abuse. Alcoholism is a major problem
themselves and those around them (Fisher, among Native-American and Alaskan Natives.
2008). Drug related crime can disrupt Hispanics may also have high rates of alcohol
neighborhoods due to violence among drug abuse.
dealers and pose threat to the residents and TYPE OF ABUSE VARIES WITH AGE, GENDER,
society at large (Fishers, 2008). Over half of the AND SPECIFIC MINORITY SUB GROUP
highway deaths are coursed by alcohol (WHO,
2009). Majority of homeless people have either Addiction
a drug or alcohol problem or a mental illness or Addiction describes that state when the person
in some cases have all three. experiences severe psychological and behavioral
RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH dependence on drugs or alcohol with the
SUBSTANCE ABUSE tendency to increase its use psychoactive drugs
are often associated with addiction. Addiction
Availability and Encouragement can be divided into two types: psychological
Advertising campaigns make the use of addiction, by which a user feels compelled to
chemical substances appealing and socially use a drug despite negative physical or societal

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

consequence, and physical dependence, by well as misuse of recreational drugs such as

which a user must use a drug to avoid physically alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines.
uncomfortable or even medically harmful with
The higher the dose used, the greater the
drawal symptoms. (Lenhart, Amanda 2010) Not
duration of use, and the earlier age use began
all drugs are physically addictive, but any
are predictive of worsened physical dependence
activity that stimulates the brain's dopaminergic
and thus more severe withdrawal syndromes.
reward system typically, any pleasurable
Acute withdrawal syndromes can last days,
activity can lead to psychological addiction.
weeks or months, and protracted withdrawal
Drugs that are most likely to cause addiction are
syndrome, also known as "post-acute
drugs that directly stimulate the dopaminergic
withdrawal syndrome" or "PAWS" a low-grade
system, like cocaine and amphetamines. Drugs
continuation of some of the symptoms of acute
that only indirectly stimulate the dopaminergic
withdrawal, typically in a remitting-relapsing
system, such as psychedelics, are not as likely to
pattern, that often results in relapse into active
be addictive. (Ksir, Oakley and Charles, 2002).
addiction and prolonged disability of a degree to
Common forms of rehabilitation include psycho preclude the possibility of lawful employment
therapy, support groups and pharmacotherapy, can last for months, years, or, in relatively
which use psychoactive substances to reduce common to extremely rare cases, depending on
cravings and physiological withdrawal individual factors, indefinitely.
symptoms while a user is going through detox.
Protracted withdrawal syndrome is noted to be
Methadone, itself an opioid and a psychoactive
most often caused by benzodiazepines, but is also
substance, is a common treatment for heroin
present in a majority of cases of alcohol and
addiction, as is another opioid, buprenorphine.
opioid addiction, especially that of a long-term,
According to Johnson (2010), physical
high-dose, adolescent-beginning, or chronic-
dependence refers to a state resulting from
relapsing nature (viz. a second or third addiction
chronic use of a drug that has produced tolerance
after withdrawal from the self-same substance
and where negative physical symptoms of
of dependence). Withdrawal response will vary
withdrawal result from abrupt discontinuation or
according to the dose used, the type of drug
dosage reduction. Physical dependence cans
used, the duration of use, the age of the patient,
develop from low-dose therapeutic use of
the age of first use, and the individual person.
certain medications such as benzodiazepines,
(Ibogaine 2007)
opioids, antiepileptics and antidepressants, as

The Addictive Cycle (Orth Duphorne and cycle of substance use, relief and recurring
Lisanti, 2000) stress or anxiety is repeated until psycho logic
dependence is established.
Addictive cycle shows that step 1, the problem
or need arouse stress or anxiety and is dealt with Interrupting the cycle brings about anxiety but
through substance use. Steps 2 through 4, the not physical symptoms. Steps 5 and 6,

8 Journal of International politics V1 ● I3 ● 2019

The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

physiological dependence usually follows psycho Study Area and Subjects

logic dependence. Withdrawal symptoms follow
This study was a descriptive cross-sectional
abstinence.
study conducted in Nassarwa Local Government,
The above are by no means exhaustive and Kano State. The Local Government has 11
individual problems will exist in addition or wards namely, Hotoron Kudu, Hotoron Arewa,
isolation depending on so many factors. These Dakata, Kawaji, Tudun Wada, Gama, Gwagwarwa,
include the individual circumstances, personality, Giginyu, Kaura Goje and Tudun Murtala and has a
coping resources, assistance available, type, and population of 1,828,861 (National Population
degree of substance use. Most victims will Commission, 2006). Its area covers 499 km2 and
develop a mixture of both physical and mental the principal inhabitants of these areas are the
health problems, as addiction is both relentless Hausa people.
and all consuming, devouring those it develops
Sampling Procedure
and destroying the lives of those it meets.
The study employed a multistage and snowball
Application of Peer Cluster Theory to Present
sampling design. The first stage involved the
Research
selection of the five wards from Nassarawa local
A new psychosocial model, peer cluster theory, government areas that make up Hotoron Arewa,
suggests that the socialization factors that Giginyu, Kaura Goje, Gama and Gwagwarwa.
accompany adolescent development interact to
Data Collection
produce peer clusters that encourage drug
involvement or provide sanctions against drug The data were collected between January and
use. These peer clusters are small, very cohesive February, 2019, using a structured question
groupings that shape a great deal of adolescent naire. The questionnaire used to elicit responses
behavior, including drug use. Peer cluster theory contained both closed and open-ended questions
suggests that other socialization variables, and was divided into several sections covering
strength of the family, family sanctions against the objectives of the study. The different
drug use, religious identification, and school sections covered by the questionnaire were: back
adjustment influence drug use only indirectly, ground information; demographic characteristics,
through their effect on peer clusters. Correlations prevalence and factors associated with drug
of these socialization variables with drug use abuse.
confirm the importance of socialization Data Analysis
characteristics as underlying factors in drug use
and also confirm that other socialization factors The data collected were analyzed using the
influence drug use through their effect on peer Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS
drug associations. Peer cluster theory suggests Version 21) computer package. The results were
that treatment of the drug-abusing youth must expressed in percentages, mean and standard
alter the influence of the peer cluster or it is deviations. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was
likely to fail. Prevention programs aimed at the also carried out to test differences between
family, school, or religion must also influence categories of parental and educational status and
peer clusters, or drug use will probably not be drug abuse. Multiple regressions were also used
reduced. (Redmond, 2012) to determine the relative strength of certain
variables associated with drug abuse.
RESEARCH METHODS
RESULTS
Table1. Demographic Characteristic of the Respondents
Have you ever used any drug?
Yes No
Variables (n =361) (n=119) P – Value
< 15 years 18 (52.9) 16 (47.1)
16 20 years 145 (65.0) 78(42.2)
21 25 years 198 (88.8) 25 (11.2) P<0..05
Status of parent
Yes, both 39 (69.6) 17 (30.4)
Yes, both 108 (69.2) 48 (30.8)
No 214 (79.9) 54 (20.1) P < 0.001
Current Status 86 (71.1) 30 (28.9) P<0.001

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

Still in school 173 (79.7) 44 (20.3)

Finished studies 56 (66.7) 28 (33.3)
Dropped out of school 46 (73.00) 17 (27.0)
Never went to school
Note: Figures in parentheses represent percentages
Table 1 indicates that out of 100 respondents, 94 lifetime. This formed a percentage of 19% and
agreed that they had once or severally used one, 81% respectively has being engage in drugs
two or more different types of drugs; 19 abuse
indicated that they had never used drugs in their
Table2. Commonly Abused Substances among Adolescents in Kano Metropolis
Types of Drug Never Used (%) 0 Tried once(%) 1 Used Sometimes (%) 2 Often used (%) 3
Alcohol 36.5 37.6 25.3 0.6
Cigarette 24.8 41.3 26.1 7.8
Cocaine 99.4 0.4 0.2 0.0
Heroin 98.7 0.7 0.6 0.0
Marijuana (Ganye) 13.1 48.2 22.7 16.0
Aspirin, Codeine 26.3 36.0 24.2 13.5
Glue & other 21.2 46.5 23.9 8.4
inhalants
Non Prescribed
Cough Mixture & 19.9 46.4 26.1 7.6
Depressants
Table 2 shows the types and usage of substances once. About 41% and 38%of them have tried
among adolescents in the study area. The cigarette and alcohol once respectively. Most
Table revealed that 48.2% of the respondents of the respondents have often used marijuana
who have used drugs have tried marijuana (16%), aspirin and codeine (13.5%), glue and
once, 46.5% have tried glue and other other inhalants (8.4%), cigarette (7.8%), non-
inhalants once. Another 46.4% have tried non prescribed cough mixture and other
prescribed cough mixture and other depressants (7.6%). However, none of the
depressants once. However, less than 1% of respondents have often used cocaine and
the respondents have tried cocaine and heroin heroin (Table2).
Table3. Reasons for Drug abuse among Adolescents in Nassarawa Local Government

Reason for Drug Abuse Frequency Percentage

Motivation 40 11.1
Reduce stress 52 14.4
Build-up self-esteem 21 5.8
Ability to increase performance 42 11.6
Provide esoteric insights in the nature of self and 31 8.6
the world of reality
Poverty and unemployment 33 9.1
Frustration 17 4.7
Hedonism 26 7.2
Reduce fear 34 9.4
Sense of euphoria 21 5.8
Relaxation prior to social event 44 12.2
The above table has indicated youth engagement motivation as motive for using drugs.
in drugs abuse which they ideally mentioned However, only a relatively smaller percentage
reduction of stress as motive for using drugs. (4.7%) of them indicated frustration as reason
12.1%indicated relaxation prior to social for engaging in drug abuse.
events; and 11.1% of them mentioned
Table4. Relationship between Parental Status and Drug Abuse among the Adolescents
Parental status Drug Abuse Frequency Mean SD
Living with none of the parents 39 1.06 3.20
Living with one parent 108 0.69 2.40

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The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

Living with both parent 214 0.63 2.14

F2, 358 = 7.903, p =.001
The results in Table 4 revealed a statistically = 1.06, SD = 3.20) followed by those who
significant relationship between the different reported living with at least one of their
categories of parental status and exposure to parents (M =69, SD = 2.40). The group with
drug abuse (F (2, 358) = 7.903, p = .00). The the lowest score was those who reported
group with the highest score was those who living with both parents (M = .63, SD = 2.14).
reported living without any of the parents (M
Table6. Multiple Regression Analysis Results on Factors Associated With Drug abuse
Factors Un- Regression Standard Error Regression P value
standardized Coefficient(b) Standardized(SE) Coefficient(B)
Stress .013. .027 -.032 .037
Peer Drug use .491 .129 317 .047
Depression .027 .025 -.01 .036
Self-esteem -.278 .053 -.005 .050
Unemployment .273 .178 .08 .048
Poverty .267 .023 .89 .046
R2 = 94
Table 6showed the results of multiple regression Many times drugs abusers their peers are
of the independent variables (stress, peer drug mostly adolescents with low self-esteem, while
use, depression, self-esteem, unemployment, high self-esteem is seen as a shield for the
poverty) and the dependent variable (drug protecting the self from detrimental practices
abuse). The result indicated a significant such as group influences (Cast and Burke,
relationship between each of the independent 2002). According to identity theory (Stryker,
variables and the dependent variable (drug 1980), self-esteem performs a protective role
abuse). when adolescents are incapable of confirming
the characters that shields them from sufferings.
DISCUSSION Although throughout the history of human
In predicting drug abuse, self-esteem becomes a development, depression has been seen as a key
necessary prerequisite because it encompasses factor in drug abuse, it was however, not found
beliefs about ones-self as well as other significant to be a significant predictor of drug
emotional responses to those beliefs (Mann et abuse in this study. Unemployment appeared to
al., 2004).This shows the problem of drugs be associated with drug abuse. Similarly,
abuse has become a social problem affecting the individuals who do not have a stable income
society today. Some has given reasons for were influenced by various forces in the society.
imitation of peer behavior by adolescents. The This probably made the adolescents to engage in
result of this study underlines the role of low drug abuse.
self-esteem in the prediction of drug abuse. Self-
CONCLUSION
esteem actually is the indication of and for
youth engagement on drug abuse. The issue of drug abuse has become a serious
social problem affecting both social lives of
Concept and self-esteem. Hence some
many people’s living in the metropolitan L.G.As
adolescent drug abusers used drugs as a coping
in Kano because of the higher number of youth
mechanism. The result from this study therefore,
engagement in this bad attitude of drugs abuse
revealed low self-esteem as the strongest and
by both male and female youth bearing age from
unique predictor of drug abuse among
13-40 of age. However, the bad story in these
adolescents. Bandura (2006) suggested that
narrations is the nature of increase enrollments
adolescents vary on how effectively they
of womenfolk in this deal of drug abuse while
accomplish the beliefs they hold about their
some of these women are students and married
competence to produce results, because their
women while in the 1990s women are not real
achievement is a powerful personal source used
participant in this bad attitude.
in negotiating their development. Consequently
adolescents with low self-esteem are likely to RECOMMENDATIONS
become depressed which leads to drug abuse
(Patterson et al., 2004). The paper recommended the following issues to
address the problem:

Journal of International politics V1 ● I3 ● 2019 11

The Effect of Drug Abuse among Youth in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State, Nigeria (2014-2017)

 Government should provide policies that between Perceived Functions and Behavioral
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Longitudinal Study of Co-occurring Psychiatric
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Dropout and Delinquency: Mexican-American
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Parental Rearing Style, Self-Esteem and Self-
 Government should provide rehabilitation Criticism as Predictors of happiness. Journal of
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[15] Doku D, Koivusilta L, Rimpelä A. (2012)
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