Hypothetical analysis of mediating roles of cultural identity on drug problem control in Nigeria: Managerial and policy implications for stakeholders

Abstract

Illegal narcotic drugs flow from different hidden sources within and outside a territory. Over the years, national, regional and global organizations have documented a wide variety of drugs including cannabis, heroin, pharmaceutical opioids, cocaine, tranquilizers and sedatives, amphetamines, methamphetamine, ecstasy, hallucinogens, solvents and inhalants, and cough syrups as being commonly misused. Literature is equally replete with several studies on how stakeholders are addressing the challenge with mixed outcomes. This study joins the conversation by investigating the mediating roles of severe personal and social marginalization as well as economic and educational inequalities on drug problem control in Nigeria. A Hypothetical approach, with the adoption of system dynamics and quantum-like model as research methods, was employed for the examination of the relationship between these cultural identities and drug problem control. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders working to address the issue of drug abuse in Nigeria, and contribute to the broader understanding of the complex dynamics of drug problem control in the context of cultural identity theory of drug abuse.