Communication as a Catalyst for Preventing Drug Abuse in Nigerian Universities

Abstract

This study examines communication as an essential and inevitable tool for addressing drug abuse among undergraduates in Nigeria. Drug abuse remains one of the major threats to health, carrying serious consequences for young people in particular, often driven by factors such as social pressure and curiosity. Among students, drug abuse poses growing academic, health, and social concerns, underscoring the need for more targeted and effective communication strategies. The study evaluates the use of tools such as educational seminars, peer-led campaigns, campus posters, and social media in raising awareness and reducing drug use among undergraduates at Babcock University. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 400 students across various faculties using structured questionnaires. The research employed the Health Belief Model and Agenda-Setting Theory to frame how students perceive risks and how communication channels influence behavior. Findings reveal that while general awareness of drug abuse is high, many students remain uninformed about available support services. Peer influence and the normalization of drug use within social settings were identified as significant factors encouraging experimentation. Based on these findings, the study concludes that culturally relevant, student-centered communication approaches can strengthen preventive education and promote healthier choices. It recommends that Babcock University implement strategic, youth-friendly communication initiatives, particularly through digital media and peer engagement. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on drug prevention and provides a framework for integrating communication-driven interventions within higher education institutions.

KEYWORDS:

Drug abuse, Communication, Peer Influence, Social Media, Babcock University