This study investigated the socioeconomic determinants of alcoholism and drug abuse among

– students of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. A sample of 400 students was selected, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that male respondents (54.5%) constituted the majority of the participants, while most respondents (44.0%) were aged 21-25 years. The prevalence

of alcoholism and drug abuse was found to be high (Mean = 3.82, SD = 0.91). Alcoholic beverages

(79.5%; Mean =4.18) and tramadol (65.5%; Mean =3.71) were identified as the most commonly abused substances. Family socioeconomic status, particularly financial hardship (Mean =3.91) and

lack of parental supervision (Mean = 3.88), significantly influenced substance abuse. Peer pressure

emerged as the strongest determinant (Grand Mean = 4.03), while parental educational level (Grand

Mean = 3.78) and students’ financial status (Grand Mean = 3.77) also contributed significantly.

Alcoholism and drug abuse negatively affected academic performance (Grand Mean =4.06). The study concluded that socioeconomic and peer-related factors promoted substance abuse among students. It was recommended that college authorities should implement comprehensive prevention programmes integrating counselling, peer education, parental involvement, and financial support services.