1.1 Introduction
Public perception refers to the collective opinions, beliefs, and attitudes held by individuals within a community regarding a particular issue or entity. in the context of this study, it pertains to how the community views the effectiveness and role of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating drug abuse among youth (Kotler & Keller, 2016). The increasing prevalence of drug abuse among youth has become a pressing concern globally, prompting various stakeholders to implement measures aimed at mitigating this issue. In Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) plays a pivotal role in combating drug-related challenges, particularly among the youth demographic. The NDLEA was established in 1989, with a mandate to enforce drug laws and promote a drug-free society through various strategies, including prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs (Osholowu, 2020).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Historically, the country has faced significant challenges regarding drug trafficking and substance abuse, largely due to its geographical location as a transit hub for various narcotics. in the 1980s and 1990s, Nigeria witnessed a surge in drug abuse, particularly among young people, which led to a national outcry and a call for urgent intervention (Obot, 2018). The increasing rates of drug use prompted the Nigerian government to establish various agencies aimed at combating drug abuse and trafficking. In response to the escalating drug problem, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was established in 1989. This agency was tasked with enforcing drug laws and implementing strategies to combat drug trafficking and abuse (Osholowu, 2020).
Over the years, the NDLEA has evolved its strategies to include public awareness campaigns targeting youth, recognizing that early education and community involvement are crucial in the fight against drug abuse. Despite these efforts, public perception of the NDLEA's effectiveness has been mixed. Research has shown that community attitudes towards drug enforcement agencies significantly influence their success in implementing anti-drug initiatives (Meyer, 2019).
In recent years, studies have increasingly focused on the perceptions and attitudes of the public towards the NDLEA and its programs. Understanding these perceptions is vital, as they can affect the level of community engagement and support for the agency's initiatives (Ogbebor, 2017). Given the significant impact that public perception can have on the effectiveness of drug enforcement efforts, this study aims to assess how the public perceives the NDLEA's role in combating drug abuse among youth.
Drug abuse among youth has emerged as a critical public health issue, leading to numerous social, economic, and health-related challenges worldwide. In Nigeria, this problem is exacerbated by a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and social dislocation, which contribute to the vulnerability of young people to drug abuse (Umar et al., 2020). Reports from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlight that Nigeria is a significant transit hub for illicit drugs, making the fight against drug abuse particularly urgent (UNODC, 2021).
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was established to address the growing menace of drug abuse in Nigeria and to enforce drug laws effectively. As the principal agency responsible for combating drug trafficking and abuse, the NDLEA undertakes various initiatives, including public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and community engagement strategies aimed at reducing drug use among youth (Okafor, 2019). Despite the NDLEA’s extensive efforts, public perception of its effectiveness remains ambiguous. Studies indicate that the perception of law enforcement agencies can significantly affect their ability to carry out their functions (Ogbebor, 2017). Positive public perception fosters cooperation, whereas negative views can lead to mistrust and a lack of community involvement in drug prevention initiatives (Obot, 2018). Thus, understanding how the public perceives the NDLEA's role in the fight against drug abuse among youth is vital for enhancing its strategies and fostering community support.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to assess public perception regarding the NDLEA’s effectiveness in combating drug abuse among youth.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the increasing prevalence of drug abuse among youth in Nigeria presents significant challenges to public health and social stability. Despite the efforts of the NDLEA to combat this issue, there exists a noticeable gap in public perception regarding the agency's effectiveness and role in addressing drug abuse. Many individuals remain unaware of the NDLEA's initiatives and programs designed to reduce drug use among young people. This lack of awareness is further compounded by negative perceptions of law enforcement, which often hinder community cooperation and engagement in anti-drug campaigns (Obot, 2018).
Moreover, societal stigma surrounding drug abuse contributes to a reluctance to seek help and support for affected individuals. This stigma, along with misinformation about drug-related issues, complicates the NDLEA's efforts to foster a more informed and proactive public stance against drug abuse. Without a clear understanding of the NDLEA’s role and initiatives, youth may not perceive the seriousness of drug abuse, leading to continued experimentation and use.
Additionally, existing literature highlights the need for comprehensive research on public attitudes towards drug enforcement agencies. A limited understanding of these perceptions restricts the NDLEA's ability to develop targeted strategies that effectively address community concerns and improve public support (Ogbebor, 2017). Consequently, assessing public perception regarding the NDLEA's role in fighting drug abuse among youth is essential for enhancing its initiatives and fostering a collaborative approach to tackling this pressing issue. It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by evaluating the public perception of the NDLEA regarding its role in combating drug abuse among youth in Nigeria.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess public perception of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) regarding its role in combating drug abuse among youth in Nigeria. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To evaluate the level of awareness among the public about the NDLEA’s programs and initiatives aimed at addressing drug abuse among youth.
- To analyze the attitudes of the community towards the NDLEA and its effectiveness in combating drug abuse.
- To identify the factors that shape public perception of the NDLEA’s role in drug abuse prevention.
- To assess the influence of societal stigma on community engagement and support for NDLEA initiatives.
- To provide recommendations based on the findings to enhance the NDLEA's outreach and effectiveness in combating drug abuse among youth.
1.5 Research Questions
The research study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is the level of awareness among the public regarding the programs and initiatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) aimed at combating drug abuse among youth?
- How does the community perceive the effectiveness of the NDLEA in addressing drug abuse issues among young people?
- What factors influence public attitudes towards the NDLEA and its role in drug abuse prevention?
- How does societal stigma surrounding drug abuse impact community engagement and support for NDLEA initiatives?
- What recommendations can be made to improve public perception and enhance the NDLEA's effectiveness in combating drug abuse among youth?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H0: There is no significant relationship between public awareness of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency's (NDLEA) programs and the perception of its effectiveness in combating drug abuse among youth.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between public awareness of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency's (NDLEA) programs and the perception of its effectiveness in combating drug abuse among youth.
1.7 Significance of Study
The significance of this study will be multifaceted, impacting various stakeholders involved in addressing drug abuse among youth.
- For policymakers, the findings will provide evidence-based insights that will guide the formulation of more effective drug policies and interventions, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed.
- For the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the study will highlight areas for improvement in public engagement and communication strategies, enabling the agency to foster stronger community relationships and enhance its effectiveness in drug abuse prevention.
- For educators and schools, the results will underscore the importance of incorporating drug education into curricula, helping to create informed students who are more aware of the risks associated with drug use.
- For community organizations and non-profits, the study will identify potential areas for collaboration with the NDLEA, fostering partnerships that will enhance outreach efforts and support programs aimed at reducing drug abuse among youth.
- For families and parents, the insights gained will raise awareness about the role of community resources and support systems in addressing drug abuse, equipping them with knowledge and tools to better guide and protect their children.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the assessment of public perception on the role national drug law enforcement agency in fight against drug abuse among youth.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Public Perception: Public perception refers to the collective opinions, beliefs, and attitudes held by individuals within a community regarding a particular issue or entity. in the context of this study, it pertains to how the community views the effectiveness and role of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating drug abuse among youth (Kotler & Keller, 2016).
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA): The NDLEA is a Nigerian government agency established in 1989 to combat drug trafficking and abuse through law enforcement, education, and community outreach. The agency is responsible for enforcing drug laws and implementing strategies aimed at reducing the prevalence of drug-related issues in Nigeria (Osholowu, 2020).
Drug Abuse: Drug abuse refers to the intentional use of substances, including illegal drugs and prescription medications, in a manner that deviates from prescribed guidelines or social norms. It often leads to adverse health effects and social consequences, particularly among young people (Obot, 2018).
Youth: Youth typically refers to individuals between the ages of 15 and 24 years. This age group is often characterized by developmental changes, increased risk-taking behaviors, and susceptibility to peer influence, making them particularly vulnerable to drug abuse (UNESCO, 2015).
Awareness: Awareness encompasses the knowledge and understanding that individuals possess about a specific topic or issue. In this study, it refers to the extent to which the public is informed about the NDLEA’s programs and initiatives aimed at addressing drug abuse among youth (Meyer, 2019).
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