Pattern, motivation and risks of substance use among commercial road transport workers in Ile-Ife, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Psychoactive substance use by commercial drivers has emerged as both a public health and road safety issue in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, drivers face working conditions that may promote psychoactive substance use both as a coping mechanism and as a means of enhancing work performance. However, local evidence in relation to psychoactive substance use from this population in recent years is limited. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence, pattern and motivation for use, and level of substance abuse risk among commercial road transport workers in Ile-ife, and examine factors associated with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and high abuse risk. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 316 commercial transport workers recruited from major motor parks in Ile-Ife using a semi-structured questionnaire with validated substance use screening questions. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were conducted. Alcohol and energy drinks were the most commonly reported substances, with 51.6% and 52.2% of participants reporting current use, respectively. High use of kolanut/bitter kola and herbal mixtures was also reported, whereas use of cannabis, opioids, cocaine, and sedatives was relatively low. Similarly, 18.4% of participants were classified with high substance abuse risk, and among users, 21.8% reported ever driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs. Reduction of stress, pleasure, and improvement of work performance were the most common reasons given for substance use. Increasing age was independently associated with lower odds of driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and high abuse risk. However, increased motivation score was associated with higher odds of both outcomes. Overall, substance use appears to be heavily influenced by occupational and psychosocial factors among this population. Indicating the need for combining routine screening for substance use with counselling for stress management and motor-park-based road safety education.