Barriers to successful treatment of substance abuse among Nigeria Youths: A systematic review

Abstract

The prevalence of substance abuse represents a major global public health concern, with Nigerian youths facing particularly unique challenges. This systematic review examines the barriers to successful treatment of substance abuse among Nigerian youths. In line with the PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines, this review included twelve studies published between January 1999 to May 2024. The key barriers identified in this review included funding shortages, uneven distribution of treatment centres, limited awareness of treatment services, poor policy and staffing and beliefs in alternative medicine. The results identified in this review highlighted structural factors such as a lack of qualified staff, absence of funding and poor policy enforcement, along with individual factors such as stigma and lack of awareness as the major factors that significantly impedes the successful treatment of substance abuse among youths in Nigeria. This review thereby highlights the need for increased funding, better policy enforcement and increased public-awareness campaigns to improve treatment outcomes for Nigerian youths. In conclusion, expanding access to treatment is contingent upon the strategic establishment, adequate staffing and proper equipping of additional mental health facilities nationwide.