Influence of Peer Group Pressure on Drug Abuse Among In-School Adolescents in Kano Metropolis

Drug abuse among in-school adolescents represents a critical public health and educational concern across Nigerian urban centres, with Kano Metropolis emerging as a notable area of documented substance misuse. This study examined the influence of peer group pressure on drug abuse among in-school adolescents in selected secondary schools in Kano Metropolis, North West Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design, data were gathered from 350 students across six secondary schools through purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The Peer Pressure Inventory and the Drug Abuse Screening Tool for Adolescents (DAST-A), both adapted for local relevance, were administered. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and chi-square tests of association. Findings revealed that peer group affiliation was the most strongly cited motivational factor for initial drug experimentation, surpassing curiosity and family influence. Cannabis, tramadol, and codeine-based substances were the most commonly reported drugs of abuse. A significant association was established between students belonging to unstructured peer groups and elevated drug abuse risk. Students with access to a school counsellor reported better awareness of drug consequences but similar rates of peer influence. The study recommended that counsellors develop structured peer-mediation programmes and that schools collaborate with community health workers for preventive campaigns. The Kano State government was advised to fund regular counsellor training on substance abuse interventions. Keywords: peer pressure, drug abuse, adolescents, secondary school, Kano.