EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY

This study investigated the effect of drug abuse on the academic performance of students at Ekiti State University (EKSU). The rising prevalence of substance use among undergraduates has become a significant concern for educational stakeholders and health practitioners alike. The primary objective of the research was to identify the commonly abused drugs, determine the underlying factors contributing to drug use, and evaluate the correlation between substance abuse and GPA/learning outcomes. Using a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from a sampled population of students across various faculties within the institution. Key findings revealed that there is a significant negative relationship between frequent drug use and academic concentration, attendance, and overall performance; Peer pressure, academic stress, and easy accessibility to substances were identified as the leading drivers of drug abuse; the most commonly abused substances included cannabis, tramadol, and "loud," alongside the misuse of prescription medications. The study concludes that drug abuse poses a major threat to the attainment of educational goals. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the university management strengthens its counseling unit, introduces mandatory drug awareness programs, and enforces stricter campus policies to mitigate the influence of drug peddlers within the university environment.