Peer Group Influence and Substance Abuse Among Secondary School Students in Ibadan, Oyo State

Adolescent substance abuse has emerged as a significant public health and sociological concern in urban Nigerian secondary schools, with peer group dynamics identified as a primary social determinant of initiation and continued use. This study investigates the relationship between peer group influence and substance abuse among secondary school students in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using structured questionnaires administered to 450 students drawn from six public secondary schools across three educational districts. The Social Learning Theory of Bandura was employed as the theoretical framework. Results indicate that 57% of respondents who reported substance use attributed their initiation to peer pressure, compared to only 18% citing personal curiosity. Cannabis, alcohol, and tramadol were the most frequently reported substances in use. Membership in peer groups with permissive attitudes toward substance use was the strongest predictor of individual use behavior, with peer approval reducing perceived risk significantly. Students from single-parent households were disproportionately represented among substance users. Academic performance correlated negatively with frequency of substance use across all school types. The study recommends the integration of evidence-based peer resistance skills programs into the secondary school curriculum in Oyo State, alongside teacher training in early identification of at-risk adolescent behavior. Strengthened school counseling units and parental engagement programs are also advocated. Keywords: peer influence, substance abuse, secondary school, Ibadan, adolescent behavior.