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INNOSC Theranostics and
Pharmacological Sciences Opioid use among Nigerian students

Nigeria could explore the trajectories of opioid misuse Research should also examine the effectiveness of
among students, identify important intervention points, Nigeria’s current opioid-prescribing guidelines and
and inform targeted preventive efforts. laws. Understanding how these regulations affect
In addition to quantitative research, qualitative opioid availability and usage can inform future policy
studies are warranted to gain a better understanding of decisions and reveal gaps in the existing regulatory
the cultural and socioeconomic forces that determine system. Comparative research on the success of opioid
the views regarding opioid use among Nigerian students. policy in other countries could offer valuable insights to
Researchers can utilize approaches such as focus groups Nigeria as it develops a comprehensive strategy for opioid
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and interviews to investigate students’ perspectives, management. For example, Canada’s opioid-prescribing
beliefs, and experiences with opioid use and misuse. This guidelines, which emphasize non-opioid alternatives and
qualitative technique can reveal the underlying motives for holistic pain management practices, could serve as a model
opioid misuse, including peer pressure, academic stress, for reducing addiction risks while ensuring effective pain
and desire for pain relief, which may differ dramatically treatment tailored to the Nigerian context.
from those reported in Western settings. 68 The application of technology in opioid misuse
Furthermore, preventive treatments that are adapted prevention represents an intriguing area for future study.
to Nigeria’s specific cultural and socioeconomic Mobile health applications and online platforms may
circumstances are needed. Programs that include be used to disseminate instructional content, provide
community participation, education, and awareness resources for students, and improve access to mental
campaigns can help reduce the stigma associated with healthcare. Research on the feasibility and effectiveness of
opioid addiction and promote healthy coping techniques such digital interventions in the Nigerian setting can help in
among adolescents. For example, peer-led education and the development of creative strategies for combating opioid
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support groups may promote a feeling of community usage among students. These technological tools can
while encouraging frank talks regarding substance use also be used to track opioid use trends and identify at-risk
and mental health. Such interventions should be culturally individuals, allowing for early intervention and assistance.
sensitive and tailored to the unique values and conventions Finally, coordination among academics, healthcare
of the Nigerian population. providers, politicians, and educational institutions is essential

Table 1. Summary of the actions taken to control opioid use among Nigerian students

Heading Actions taken to control opioid use
Government efforts The NAFDAC oversees opioid distribution, whereas the NDLEA enforces laws and fights illegal trafficking.
They provide funding for prevention initiatives, treatment centers, and law enforcement while developing
and updating laws to control opioid production, distribution, and prescription. 25
Community initiatives Mobilizing community leaders, religious groups, and local organizations to educate the public and combat
stigma; setting up community support groups to assist those affected by opioid addiction; and involving
community members in planning and executing culturally relevant interventions. 8
School-based strategies Organizing workshops, presentations, and counseling sessions by health experts to warn students about
opioid dangers; offering counseling and mental health services in schools for students dealing with
substance abuse; and encouraging student-led support groups to promote healthy choices and mutual
support. 15
Parental roles Teaching parents to recognize signs of opioid misuse and understand the associated risks, promoting
honest conversations between parents and children about drug use, and encouraging parents to supervise
activities and provide emotional support to help children resist peer pressure. 17
Educational institution’s role Including substance abuse education in school curricula for comprehensive student knowledge, equipping
teachers and staff with the skills to identify and address opioid use among students, implementing policies,
and establishing and enforcing school policies against drug use while supporting affected students. 15
International organization’s support Offering technical expertise and resources for effective prevention and treatment programs, providing
funding for local efforts to reduce opioid use and enhance healthcare infrastructure, partnering with
Nigerian institutions for research, and sharing best practices in combating opioid misuse. 25
Healthcare provider’s contribution Ensuring availability of counseling, detoxification and rehabilitation services, particularly in rural areas;
providing behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatments in specialized centers; and training
healthcare workers to manage opioid addiction cases effectively and compassionately. 14
Abbreviation: NDLEA: National drug law enforcement agency.

Volume 8 Issue 1 (2025) 54 doi: 10.36922/itps.3894