Drug abuse among Nigerian youth is not a rumour. In 2022, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) reported that over 14.4 million Nigerians are involved in drug abuse — with young people aged 15–35 accounting for the majority of cases. Three substances drive most of this crisis in Southeast and South-South Nigeria: Mkpuru Mmiri, tramadol, and codeine cough syrup.
This article explains what each substance actually does, why young people use them, and how to recognise the warning signs — in yourself and in people you care about.
Mkpuru Mmiri (Crystal Methamphetamine)
"Mkpuru Mmiri" means "water particles" in Igbo — a name that reflects the clear, crystalline appearance of crystal methamphetamine. It entered Nigerian communities rapidly and has since become one of the most destructive substances affecting youth in the Southeast.
What it does
Methamphetamine works by flooding the brain with dopamine — the "reward" chemical — at levels 3–5 times higher than any natural experience can produce. This creates an intense euphoria that lasts 8–12 hours. The problem is what comes after.
When the high ends, the brain's natural dopamine system is temporarily depleted. Users experience what is called a "crash" — deep depression, exhaustion, and an overwhelming craving to use again. With repeated use, the brain's ability to produce natural dopamine degrades permanently. This is why long-term users often appear emotionally flat, unable to feel pleasure in ordinary life.
Physical warning signs
- Severe weight loss over weeks
- Dental decay ("meth mouth") — from dry mouth and teeth grinding
- Skin sores from compulsive picking
- Insomnia for days at a time, followed by extended "crashes"
- Paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behaviour
The dependency timeline
Methamphetamine is one of the most addictive substances known. Physical dependence can develop after just 2–3 uses. This is not an exaggeration — the neurological changes begin immediately.
Tramadol (High-Dose Super Tramadol)
Tramadol is a prescription opioid painkiller. In its prescribed form at therapeutic doses (50–100mg), it manages moderate pain. In Nigeria, however, illicitly manufactured "Super Tramadol" tablets are sold at doses of 200mg, 225mg, and even 250mg — doses that no legitimate prescriber would use.
Why young people use it
Super Tramadol is used to suppress hunger (allowing users to work or study for longer), to feel energised, and — in some communities — as a performance enhancer before physical labour. It is relatively cheap, widely available, and carries less social stigma than crystal meth.
What it actually does
At high doses, tramadol causes opioid-like effects: euphoria, sedation, reduced pain sensitivity. It also inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake — meaning it affects mood and alertness like an antidepressant. This combination is what makes it feel "functional."
The danger is twofold:
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Seizures. High-dose tramadol significantly lowers the seizure threshold. Grand mal seizures have been recorded in otherwise healthy young men who used Super Tramadol. The risk increases dramatically when combined with alcohol.
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Opioid dependence. The brain adapts to regular tramadol use quickly. Withdrawal symptoms — severe anxiety, muscle cramps, insomnia, nausea, and intense drug cravings — emerge within 24–48 hours of stopping. Most users cannot stop without medical help.
Codeine Cough Syrup (Lean / Purple Drank)
Codeine is an opioid found in many prescription cough syrups. When consumed in large quantities — often mixed with soft drinks to make "lean" or "purple drank" — it produces euphoria and sedation.
The scale of the problem
A 2018 NDLEA survey found that Nigeria was consuming over 3 million bottles of codeine cough syrup per day in the northern states alone. Following bans and production restrictions, availability dropped — but demand shifted to other states and to tramadol as a substitute.
Specific risks for young users
Opioids suppress the brain's drive to breathe. In overdose, this becomes fatal. Unlike adults, young people often underestimate the dose-response relationship — meaning what appears to be a "recreational" amount can cross into overdose territory quickly, especially when combined with alcohol or sedatives.
Regular use also suppresses the immune system, impairs memory consolidation during sleep, and produces severe constipation and hormonal disruption with long-term use.
"I Can Stop Whenever I Want" — The Biology of Why That's Not True
The most dangerous belief about substance use is that willpower alone determines outcome. The neuroscience says otherwise.
All three substances above modify gene expression in the brain's reward pathways — changes that persist long after the substance leaves the body. This is why:
- A person who has been sober for months can relapse after a single use
- Cravings triggered by environmental cues (smells, locations, people) can feel overwhelming even years into recovery
- Withdrawal from opioids (tramadol, codeine) produces physical illness that most people cannot manage without support
This is not a character failing. It is how the brain works.
What to Do If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If it is an emergency — someone is unconscious, having a seizure, or not breathing — call 112 immediately.
For confidential, non-judgmental support:
Both lines are free, confidential, and will not lead to arrest for the caller.
ALTDAP's Resources page also lists verified rehabilitation centres and counselling services sorted by your location — free to access, no account required.
Start With Awareness
The most consistent finding in drug abuse prevention research is that accurate knowledge — not fear-based messaging — reduces initiation rates. Young people who understand specifically what a substance does to their brain and body make different decisions.
That is exactly why ALTDAP exists.
Take the free 20-question awareness challenge to find out where your knowledge currently stands. No sign-up. No data collected. Just your honest baseline.