Survey of Substance Abuse Patterns Among University Athletes in South West Nigeria

Substance abuse among athletes poses significant risks to health, athletic performance, and sporting integrity. This study surveys substance abuse patterns among university athletes in institutions across the South West geopolitical zone of Nigeria, focusing on performance-enhancing substances, recreational drugs, and alcohol consumption. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 310 athletes from five federal and state universities across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States. A structured, anonymous questionnaire adapted from validated sports substance abuse instruments assessed lifetime use, current use, perceived reasons for use, and awareness of anti-doping regulations. Findings reveal that alcohol is the most frequently used substance, with 53 percent of respondents reporting current use. Use of anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing substances is reported by 19 percent of respondents, predominantly among strength and power sport athletes. Awareness of anti-doping rules among respondents is notably low, with only 28 percent demonstrating adequate knowledge of the World Anti-Doping Agency prohibited list. Peer influence and competitive pressure to improve performance are the most commonly cited reasons for substance use. Female athletes report significantly lower prevalence of performance-enhancing substance use compared to male counterparts. Recommendations include mandatory anti-doping education for university athletes, establishment of counselling services within sports departments, and strengthening of sports governance frameworks at the institutional level. Keywords: substance abuse, university athletes, South West Nigeria, anti-doping, performance-enhancing substances