DRUG ADDICTION AMONG YOUTHS IN IKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigated drug addiction among youths in Ika South Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. The population study constituted 162,594 residents of Ika South Local Government Area in Delta State and a sample of 399 were determined using Taro Yamane Formula. Structured questionnaires made up of 18 questionnaire items helped in gathering data from those that responded. Frequency table and percentage were employed in analyzing the questionnaire items while regression analysis was employed for the hypothesis testing at 0.05 level of significance. The analysis was done with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). The study found that there is a significant impact between drug addiction among youths and the rate of school dropout in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State. The study also found that there is a significant relationship between non-involvement of youths in productive economic activities and drug addiction in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State. The study further found that there is a significant relationship between drug addiction and youths. residence in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends amongst others that the Delta State Government, in collaboration with the Local Government Council, should establish well-equipped drug rehabilitation and counseling centers within Ika South. These centers should provide free or subsidized therapy, detoxification programs, and mental health support adapted to young addicts' needs.