DRUG MISUSE AND DEPENDENCY AMONG THE UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI STUDENTS

The study determined dug misuse and dependency among students in Maiduguri Borno State. Three objectives were raised and three research questions were answered. Related literature was reviewed on trend of drug abuse and misuse, measures employed by the authority in reducing drug misuse and abuse, and solution on how to address the problem. The research design used for the study was descriptive res each survey, multi-stage sampling techniques was employed to select two percent of the respondents across four departments. Base on the finding of this stud; there are significant number of respondents, 65.7%, perceive drug abuse as a major issue among students. Drugs such as alcohol, cannabis, and prescription drugs are identified as the most commonly abused substances on campus, with 65.7% agreeing that they are prevalent among students, Peer pressure is recognized as a leading cause of drug misuse, with 67.2% of respondents agreeing that it plays a major role in influencing students to engage in drug use. Additionally, 65.7%% of respondents attribute the accessibility of drugs on or near campus as a contributing Factor to the misuse of substances. This study has the critical issue of drug misuse and dependency among students at the University of Maiduguri, with particular focus on the Faculty of Education. Drugs, whether chemical or non-chemical, when misused, pose significant risks to individuals and society at large. The misuse and dependency on drugs not only impact the academic performance and mental health of students but also threaten their overall well-being and future contributions to society. Base on the findings of the study the following recommendations were made; The University should organize regular awareness campaigns on the dangers of drug misuse and dependency. These campaigns should target student's at all academic levels and utilize workshops, seminars, and multimedia platforms to educate them on the risks associated with substance abuse. The university should enforce stringent policies regarding drug use on campus. These policies should include penalties for possession and use of illicit substances, combined with rehabilitation opportunities for affected students.