Depressant / hallucinogen
Cannabis
Cannabis is a plant drug that is smoked, eaten or vaped. It is the most widely used illegal drug in Nigeria and is much stronger today than…
Read the guideDrug encyclopedia
Plain-language guides to the substances people in Nigeria are most likely to meet. Each entry covers street names, appearance, effects, long-term consequences, signs of abuse and treatment options.
Opioid painkiller (prescription)
Tramadol
Tramadol is a strong prescription painkiller. It is widely misused in Nigeria, often in doses far higher than a doctor would ever prescribe.
Read the guideOpioid (cough syrup)
Codeine
Codeine is a mild opioid found in some cough syrups. Misuse usually means drinking large amounts, sometimes mixed with soft drinks. Codeine…
Read the guideStimulant
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant. It has been reported in Nigeria under local names and is linked to severe mental…
Read the guideStimulant
Cocaine
Cocaine is a stimulant made from the coca plant. It acts quickly and wears off quickly, which makes repeat use very easy to fall into.
Read the guideOpioid
Heroin
Heroin is a very powerful opioid that is extremely addictive and one of the most dangerous drugs for overdose.
Read the guideDepressant
Alcohol
Alcohol is a legal drug for adults, but it is still a drug. Under-18s should not drink, and heavy drinking harms the body, mind and family …
Read the guideStimulant
Tobacco
Tobacco is smoked, chewed or sniffed. It is the leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide, and nicotine makes it very addict…
Read the guideStimulant
Nicotine products
Vapes, e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches deliver nicotine, often in sweet flavours that appeal to young people. They are not harmless, and …
Read the guideOpioids / sedatives / stimulants
Prescription drug misuse
This means using medicines in ways a doctor did not intend: taking someone else’s pills, taking more than prescribed, or taking them to get…
Read the guideThis encyclopedia is for education and prevention. It is not medical advice, and it does not describe how to obtain or use drugs.