Background/purpose. This study investigated the perception of social studies students on substance abuse in North-West Nigeria, focusing specifically on cannabis and sedative drug abuse. Materials/methods. The research employed a descriptive survey method with a sample of 400 undergraduate Social Studies students from Northwestern campuses, selected through purposive and proportionate sampling techniques. Two research questions and hypotheses guided the study, utilizing a validated questionnaire (APUSOSAS) with a reliability index of 0.89. The findings revealed that students demonstrated high awareness of cannabis-related risks, particularly recognizing its severe mental health implications and rapid onset effects. Regarding sedative drug abuse, students showed significant concern, emphasizing the need for accessible support services and counseling. Results. Statistical analysis using t-tests rejected both null hypotheses, indicating significant differences in students' attitudes towards cannabis (t=162.26, p<0.000) and perceptions of sedative drug abuse (t=127.91, p<0.011). The study identified peer pressure and lack of sensitization as key factors encouraging substance abuse among students. Based on these findings, the research recommends intensifying educational efforts about mental health risks associated with cannabis use and implementing stricter institutional policies to limit drug availability. The study also advocates for comprehensive curriculum reforms that incorporate detailed modules on substance abuse prevention and expand support services for affected students. Conclusion. These findings contribute to understanding substance abuse perceptions among Nigerian university students and provide a framework for developing targeted intervention strategies.