Perceived Impact of Substance Abuse on Quality of Life Among Okada Riders in Ilawe Ekiti, Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Study

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@article{1714386,
      author = {Kehinde Oke Agbetayo, Akpor Oluwaseyi Abiodun; Olaniyi Kehinde Samuel, Afolami Happiness Ileola; Adeoba Oluwanifemi Elisha, Agbetayo Christiananh Juwon; Adeoba Oluwakemi Esther; Ogunjobi Ayodele Samuel, Owolabi Babajide Augustine; Oyedepo Kolade Emmanuel; Jaiyeola Joshua Sunday},
      title = {Perceived Impact of Substance Abuse on Quality of Life Among Okada Riders in Ilawe Ekiti, Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Study},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {8},
      pages = {1169-1197},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1714386.pdf},
      abstract = {Background and objectives: Substance abuse is a growing public health crisis in Nigeria, with commercial motorcyclists (Okada riders) representing a particularly vulnerable occupational group due to stressful working conditions, economic hardship, and easy access to psychoactive substances. Despite the high prevalence of substance use in this population, limited research has examined its perceived impact on quality of life, particularly in semi-urban communities. This study aimed to assess the perceived impact of substance abuse on the quality of life of Okada riders in Ilawe Ekiti, Nigeria, by determining the prevalence and patterns of substance use, identifying commonly abused substances, evaluating the perceived effects on physical, mental, social, and economic wellbeing, and exploring preventive strategies.
Methods: A mixed-methods descriptive study was conducted among 50 Okada riders in Ilawe Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Quantitative data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire adapted from standardized substance abuse assessment tools, capturing socio-demographic characteristics, substance use history, types of substances used, perceived impacts on wellbeing, and preventive strategies. Qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 10 purposively selected riders to explore lived experiences, motivations, and contextual factors influencing substance use. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at p<0.05 significance level. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using an inductive approach. Findings were triangulated to enhance validity and comprehensiveness.
Results: Substance use prevalence was 74.0% (lifetime) and 64.0% (current), with 34.0% reporting daily use. The most commonly abused substances were alcohol (42.0%), cigarettes (32.0%), and tramadol (28.0%). Local vendors and drug dealers were the primary sources (30.0% each). Substance abuse was perceived to negatively affect physical health (60.0%), cause financial problems (68.0%), lead to reckless riding and accidents (78.0%), and strain family relationships (64.0%). Paradoxically, 54.0% believed substances helped maintain alertness during long working hours. Preventive strategies endorsed included counselling services (42.0%), law enforcement (32.0%), and random drug testing (84.0%). Qualitative findings revealed that substance use was predominantly a coping mechanism for occupational stress, fatigue, and economic deprivation rather than recreational use. Riders described a cycle of temporary relief followed by long-term health deterioration, social stigma, and financial instability. Despite recognizing harm, most riders expressed willingness to quit if provided with alternative livelihoods, education, and rehabilitation support. A significant association was found between age and knowledge of substance abuse (χ²=24.454, df=12, p<0.05), but no significant association was found between gender and perceived effects (χ²=5.562, df=4, p>0.05).
Conclusion: Substance abuse among Okada riders in Ilawe Ekiti is highly prevalent and multifactorial, driven by occupational stressors, easy accessibility, and peer influence. Riders demonstrate awareness of the negative consequences on their quality of life yet continue use due to perceived short-term benefits and lack of alternatives. The dissociation between knowledge and behavior underscores the need for structural interventions beyond individual education. Findings highlight the urgent need for integrated, multi-sectoral approaches combining occupational health reforms, substance use screening and counseling, community-based rehabilitation, and economic empowerment programs. Nurses and other healthcare professionals have a critical role in prevention, early identification, and holistic care for this vulnerable occupational group.},
      keywords = {Substance Abuse; Quality of Life; Commercial Motorcyclists; Okada Riders; Occupational Health; Nigeria; Mixed-Methods; Health Belief Model},
      month = {February},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I8-1714386}
  }