Drugs Abuse among Adolescent School Dropouts in Sokoto State, Nigeria: Exploring Adverse Effects on Academic Potential and Relations

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the use of drugs among adolescents who have obtained only a primary school certificate in Sokoto and its consequent effect on academic potential and relations. The study was executed using a cross-sectional survey, and data were collected with a questionnaire from 300 respondents selected through a snowballing sampling technique. Eighty cohorts served as control for the study as well. The results show that respondents are Hausa/Fulani Muslims, 15-17 years old, single, have obtained a primary certificate, and are males (100%). They use cigarettes more than the cough syrup. Most of them were victims of drug abuse for a year and a minority for over two years. Most respondents spent 500 Naira on drugs, some spent 300 Naira, and others spent 200 Naira daily. The influences of the drug are: a majority face peer pressure and a minority are influenced by elder/brother. The effects felt on their body due to the drugs mainly were headache, sleep disorders, and tiredness. The others include mental illness, sickness, and loss/lack of morals. Ways to control drug abuse among adolescents are mostly employment and prevention of selling. There is a significant difference between the respondents' drug use and academic potential at p<0.05. There is indeed a harmful use of cough syrup and cigarettes among adolescent dropouts in Sokoto, with many effects. Job creation and prevention of accessibility are needed. Keywords: Primary Education, School dropout, Academic Potential, Skoto