Assessment of Psychoactive Substance Abuse Among Commercial Motorcycle Operators in Minna, Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of psychoactive substance abuse among commercial motorcycle operators in Minna is of public health concern and has become worrisome as a result of their engagement in high-risk behaviour, unsafe lane-splitting and weave in and out of traffic with little caution, putting passengers and other road users at great risk. They also, dominate the road space, overtake along wrong side of traffic, and drive against traffic. This study was invariably designed to assess the extent of abuse of psychoactive substance among commercial motorcycle operators in Minna metropolis. A cross-sectional survey in which multi-stage sampling technique was adopted in dividing Minna into to Local Government Area and 372 structured questionnaires were administered to commercial motorcycle operators at three selected designated parks and operating units (i.e., Bosso, Sauka-kahuta and Kpakungu) within Minna metropolis. Findings reveals that 69.3% of commercial motorcycles operators were between the age of 21-40 years old, 45.2% had primary and secondary education with 52.7% earning less than #50,000 monthly. Unemployment and poverty accounted for 46% of factors influencing drug abuse. While, Tramadol, Codeine and Solution accounted for 98.4% of the total variance of effect of substance abuse with 47% of abused drugs gotten through street traders and peddlers. Multiple linear regression used to assed the effects of drugs abuse shows that the coefficient of determination R2 is 0.532 (53%), ANOVA; F = 38.284, P = 0.000. The following recommendations were made based on the findings; There is need for National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and ACOMMORON to collaborate in establishing a robust monitoring post at major organized motor parks in order to monitor, control, sensitize and arrest drug abuse offenders. Finally, relevant Government agencies should introduce awareness and enlightment programs on the danger of substance abuse.