TITLE:
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Experience and Opinions of Substance Use Treatment Professionals in Nigeria
AUTHORS:
Blessing Enorioware Uteh, Arit Ekpo Esangbedo, Joy Osagiator Ariyo, Bawo Onesirosan James, Ibrahim Adamu Mshelia, Kingsley Mayowa Okonoda, Hassan Bala Salihu, Andrew Oghenerukevwe Orovwigho
KEYWORDS:
Medication-Assisted Treatment, Nigeria, Attitudes, Knowledge, Health Professionals
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Psychiatry,
Vol.16 No.1,
January
23,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Rates of drug use in Nigeria are among the highest globally, with the use of opioids associated with increased morbidity and mortality, more so with injecting drug use (IDU). Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can reduce risks, and with a country-specific guideline in place, plans for country-wide implementation of MAT are underway. A notable barrier to MAT uptake is professionals’ knowledge and attitudes. Aim: This study aimed to evidence the opinions of treatment and prevention substance use (SUD) professionals in Nigeria regarding MAT. Method: An online Google form was developed by the researchers to assess knowledge and attitudes towards MAT. This form was circulated among substance use professionals across the six geopolitical zones and the capital territory in Nigeria. Three hundred and thirty-eight professionals completed the questionnaire. Results: Most were medical doctors (53.8%) and worked in the public sector (89%). Average work experience was 11 years, and respondents estimated that nearly 1 in 10 Opioid use disorder (OUD) patients they cared for were IDUs. A majority (85.7%) endorsed the need for MAT in Nigeria, though had no previous experience (65.3%), training (74.2%), or knowledge of existing guidelines (68.7%). Over half (55%) endorsed a preference for buprenorphine and methadone to be made available. Conclusion: Most endorsed positive attitudes towards MAT and its rollout. SUD professionals endorsed positive attitudes towards MAT for OUDs and its rollout in Nigeria. Awareness of published guidelines and training are unmet needs arising from this study.