IMPACT OF SUBSTANCE USE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMNCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN UNWANA COMMUNITY, AFIKPO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA. EBONYI STATE NIGERIA
Substance use among secondary school students is a growing global concern. Studies indicate that adolescent substance use is associated with poor academic performance, school dropout, behavioural problems, and long-term health risks. This study examined the impact of substance use on academic performance of secondary school students in Unwana Community, Afikpo L.G.A. of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: identify the types of substances commonly used among secondary school students; examine the factors influencing substance use among secondary school students and; assess the effects of substance use on the academic performance of secondary school students in Unwana community, Afikpo Local Government Area. The Social Learning Theory was adopted as its theoretical framework. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design. The population for this study was one thousand two hundred (1200). Taro Yamani formula was used to determine the sample size of 204. The study employed a questionnaire in the collection of data and a simple percentage was used in analyzing data. Findings revealed that alcohol and tobacco were the most commonly used substances among students, followed by cannabis and non-medical use of prescription drugs. Peer pressure, curiosity, academic stress, family influence, and easy access to substances were identified as major factors influencing substance use. The study further found that substance use negatively affected students’ academic performance, resulting in poor concentration, irregular school attendance, declining grades, and reduced classroom participation. The study concludes that substance use poses a significant threat to students’ academic development in Unwana community and recommends strengthened school-based education, parental involvement, peer-focused interventions, and improved guidance and counselling services to curb substance use among secondary school students.