This report highlights the findings of a rapid assessment conducted to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning synthetic drugs among three key groups: people who use drugs (PWUD), law enforcement personnel (LEP), and public health professionals (PHP) in Nigeria.
The study, spanning six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sheds light on the alarming trends and challenges posed by synthetic drug use (SDU) in Nigeria. Among the key findings, methamphetamine, Colorado (spice), tramadol, and benzodiazepines emerged as the most used synthetic drugs. Poly-drug use is widespread, with 83% of users combining multiple substances. The majority of users are young adults aged 16–30, many of whom are literate and employed part-time or full-time, highlighting the broad societal reach of this issue. Accessibility remains a significant problem, with synthetic drugs readily available through dealers, friends, and on the streets. Despite the prevalence of SDU, users often face severe consequences, yet only half seek treatment. Knowledge gaps among LEPs and PHP persist, though over 70% demonstrate awareness of synthetic drug laws. Interestingly, most LEP and PHP oppose legalization, yet acknowledge potential medicinal and recreational uses of synthetic drugs.Encouragingly, over 95% of LEP and PHP expressed a desire for training and resources to prevent synthetic drug use and to better educate the public.
These findings underscore an urgent need for innovative strategies, stricter enforcement, and community-focused interventions to tackle this growing crisis in Nigeria.