ABSTRACT
Background: Psychoactive
substance use was common among commercial motorcycle operators. Studies had shown that there were some
socio-demographic factors which were commoner among commercial motorcycle
operators who used psychoactive substances. However, this was not explored
among commercial motorcycle operators in Kano, North Western Nigeria. Aim: The
aim of the study was to determine the socio-demographic factors associated with
psychoactive substance use among motorcycle operators in Kano, Northwestern
Nigeria. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. Instrument used for data
collection included socio-demographic questionnaire and World Health Organisation Student Drug Use
Questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)
16th edition. Results: Commercial motorcycle operators who used substances were
found to be of younger age group (X2 = 10.9, P <
0.001), single (X2 =
4.3, P = 0.034) and had a father who used
tobacco (X2 =
4.28, P = 0.04). Participants who were single
were more likely to use inhalants
(X2 = 21.06, P =0.001), opiates (X2 = 11.82, P = 0.012), cannabis (X2 = 5.12, P = 0.028) and stimulants (X2 = 5.12, P = 0.028) compared to those who
were married. Conclusion: This study found that being of younger age, being
single, and having a father who smoked were
significantly associated with psychoactive substance use. Participants who were
singles were more likely to use inhalants, opiates, cannabis and stimulants. No
relationship was observed between the age of the respondents and specific
substance use. Legislations should be enacted to reduce the rate of psychoactive substance use among
motorcycle operators and general population at large.