Introduction: Illicit drugs are substances that alter the central nervous system by stimulating, depressing, or causing hallucinations and are globally prohibited due to their harmful effects. Commercial motorcyclists are particularly prone to substance use, often relying on such substances to boost energy, reduce fatigue, and relax after long work hours. Objective: This study sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with illicit drug use among commercial motorcyclists in Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State. Methodology: Adescriptive cross-sectional design was conducted, using a multi-stage sampling technique to recruit 290 respondents. Data were collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, knowledge and awareness of illicit drugs, usage patterns, influencing factors and perceived effects. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Respondents had a mean age of 37.02 ± 7.32 years, and all were male. Lifetime use of at least one psychoactive substance was 68%, with alcohol being the most commonly used substance among the majority (60.7%). Nearly half (46.9%) used substances after riding, while the primary reason cited was to increase energy for further work. Substance use showed significant associations with educational level (p=0.001) and perceived effects such as blackouts (p=0.047), fights/arguments (p<0.001), road accidents (p=0.001), increased self-confidence (p=0.023), improper relation with customers (p<0.001) interpersonal conflicts, and dependence (p<0.001) Conclusion: Illicit drug use among commercial motorcyclists in Egbedore LGAis high (68%), posing notable physical and social risks. These findings call for urgent intervention through awareness campaigns, policy enforcement, and support programs
Faramade et al. (Wed,) studied this question.