This paper presents an exploratory study of alcohol and drug use
in two rural communities in Plateau State, Nigeria. The aim
is to raise awareness of the rural alcohol and drug problem. The
paper examines the patterns of alcohol consumption and drug
use, and their perceived functions for substance use among rural
farmers in Nigeria. The study shows the common use of marijuana
and alcohol in addition to prescription drugs. There is also
evidence of multiple or combinational drug use. Pleasure and relaxation
emerged as the major reasons for drug and alcohol use.
Factors influencing alcohol and drug use are the relative neglect
of rural communities, and the activities of hawkers, quacks, and
other untrained individuals pervading the rural health sectors.
The paper calls for further research to adequately capture the reality
of alcohol and drug use in rural communities in Nigeria.