Adolescent substance use is a significant public health issue with far-reaching physical, psychological, and social consequences. This study examined substance use awareness and preventive practices among senior secondary school students in Ibadan, Nigeria. Using a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative design, 548 students from four schools across Ibadan Northeast and Lagelu local government areas participated. Data were collected with standardized instruments, including the ASSIST-TEEN, SURP-SF, and ASAPQ-SF, covering ages 11–20 with parental consent. Analyses employed descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed a 50.7% prevalence of substance use, with 36.5% having used at least one substance. Alcohol (26.1%) was most commonly consumed, followed by cannabis (9.5%) and inhalants (6.7%). Substance use was significantly associated with family environment, school context, mental health issues, and accessibility of substances. While overall awareness of substance use was low, knowledge of preventive practices was relatively higher. Urban students were less likely than rural peers to misuse prescription medications, and private school students reported greater awareness (65.2%) than public school students (35.0%), though public school students showed higher willingness to participate in prevention programs (58.7% vs. 41.3%). Peer influence appeared minimal, with 94% reporting that friends did not use substances. The study identified school type, location, and class level as significant predictors of substance use but found no relationship with age. These findings underscore the need for targeted, school-based, and community-driven interventions, particularly in public schools, to improve awareness, enhance preventive practices, and reduce adolescent substance use in Nigeria.

Keywords: Substance use, Adolescents, Awareness, Preventive practices,

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