What is 'Ice’? The highly addictive substance more dangerous than cocaine surfacing across Nigeria

“Ice” (Methamphetamine) is one of the most addictive drugs in the world. In a disturbing viral video, a man was captured, visibly under the influence of a substance known as "Ice". This video has triggered concern across Nigeria and a strong reaction from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

In a follow-up video, the agency issued a blunt warning:

While the phrase "take igbo" (weed or cannabis) is misleading since "igbo" is also a hard substance with negative side effects, the viral video, as well as NDLEA’s strong warning, has left many wondering what ice is.

So, what exactly is “Ice? What are the risks and side effects of ice, and why is it considered dangerous? Let’s get into it!

“Ice” is the street name for crystal methamphetamine. It is a powerful synthetic stimulant drug chemically similar to amphetamine but far stronger and more addictive. The drug typically appears as shiny, glass-like crystals, hence the nickname "ice".

In Nigeria, it is widely known as “Mkpuru Mmiri”, especially in the Southeast, which has the highest use, with high prevalence among adolescents and youth in this region.

Unlike substances like cannabis (Igbo), “Ice” directly attacks the brain’s reward system. It floods it with dopamine, the chemical responsible for pleasure. This creates an intense "high" but also rapidly rewires the brain.

“Ice” is one of the most addictive drugs in the world; even a few uses can lead to dependency.

Long-term use can cause:

• Paranoia

• Hallucinations

• Aggression

• Psychosis (losing touch with reality)

Users may experience:

• Rapid heart rate

• High blood pressure

• Stroke or heart failure

• Extreme weight loss

Overdose is common and can happen suddenly, even in first-time users.

NDLEA’s claim that ice is “worse” than marijuana and cocaine is based on potency and long-term effects.

The key difference is that Ice delivers a longer, more intense, and serious impact, with faster and more serious damage.

“Ice” can be:

• Smoked

• Injected

• Snorted

• Swallowed

Smoking and injecting are the most dangerous because they send the drug to the brain almost instantly. This gives the feeling of: 

• Intense euphoria

• Increased energy

• Confidence boost

• Reduced need for sleep

But once the effects wear off, users often experience the following:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Fatigue

• Strong cravings

This cycle fuels addiction.

Ice (Mkpuru Mmiri or meth) is spreading fast in Nigeria and has become a growing concern for authorities, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

The following are the likely reasons for high prevalence among youths: 

• Economic hardship

• Youth unemployment

• Peer pressure

• Increased local production

In recent years, Nigeria has also been identified as a production hub for methamphetamine, making the drug more accessible.

“Ice” is not just another street drug or a phase. This substance is highly destructive with life-altering consequences.