INCREASING PREVALENCE OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IN NIGERIA ITS ROLE IN MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS AND SOCIOECONOMIC EFFECTS

Introduction: Alcohol consumption has become increasingly prevalent in Nigeria, evolving from a culturally accepted practice into a significant public health and socioeconomic concern. While alcohol traditionally played roles in ceremonies, social gatherings, and medicinal practices, its growing social acceptance has led to higher consumption rates, particularly among youths. Globally, harmful alcohol use accounts for millions of deaths annually and contributes substantially to the burden of disease. In Nigeria, rising alcohol consumption has been associated with major health complications, increased crime rates, and adverse socioeconomic outcomes. Materials and Methods: This study employed a narrative literature review of epidemiological reports, national surveys, World Health Organization (WHO) data, and peer-reviewed research on alcohol consumption patterns in Nigeria. The review examined prevalence trends, regional variations, health consequences, social implications, and policy responses. Both internal (individual-level) and external (societal-level) effects of alcohol abuse were analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of its impact. Results: Findings indicate persistently high and increasing rates of alcohol consumption across various regions of Nigeria, with particularly high prevalence among youths and young adults. Alcohol abuse is strongly associated with liver diseases, cardiovascular disorders, multiple cancers, mental health conditions, and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Additionally, alcohol contributes significantly to road traffic accidents, violent crimes, sexual assault, political thuggery, and reduced productivity. Socioeconomic consequences include increased healthcare expenditure, loss of manpower, unemployment, and slowed national development. Contributing factors include peer pressure, family influence, unemployment, media exposure, inadequate regulatory policies, and limited enforcement of alcohol control measures. Conclusion: The increasing prevalence of alcohol consumption in Nigeria represents a major public health and socioeconomic challenge. Comprehensive strategies involving prevention, policy reform, regulation of alcohol marketing and availability, early screening using tools such as the WHO AUDIT, and strengthened rehabilitation services are essential. A coordinated effort between government institutions, healthcare providers, families, educational systems, and community organizations is necessary to mitigate the long-term health and socioeconomic consequences of alcohol abuse in Nigeria.