Emerging Problems of Drug Abuse in Nigeria: Implications for Family Living

A rising societal concern in Nigeria is the issue of drug abuse, of particular concern is the number of women in drug related use and abuse. About 14.3 million Nigerians aged between 15 - 64 years of age use drugs which translates to 14.4 per cent of the population. The menace has assumed an epidemic state and is a public health concern that is threatening the well-being of families and societies. Experiencing a situation of drug abuse is often one the family is unprepared for and all of its members are affected. This study examined the emerging problems of drug abuse, the likely risk factors, and common signs of adolescents who use drugs. The paper concludes that drug abuse is a social problem that cuts across age and gender, with its devastating effects on health, family relationships, education of young people; job and family stability. Curbing the drug menace depends heavily on families taking preventive measures. Based on the conclusion, it was recommended that, families should be strengthened to form a close circuit with children, government intervention in establishing rehabilitation centers for chronic cases of drug abuse, professional help should be sought and Home Economists should sensitize the general public through seminars and workshops on the menace of drug abuse.