NAFDAC's New Initiative Tackles Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youth

By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2024. In a bold move to address the growing concern of drug abuse among Nigerian youth, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at secondary school students. The "NAFDAC Catch Them Young Programme" was officially launched at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, marking a significant step towards combating the drug abuse epidemic in the country.

NAFDAC's Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, revealed alarming statistics that highlight the urgency of this initiative. An estimated 14.4% of Nigerians, or 14.3 million individuals, are currently grappling with drug abuse issues. This staggering figure highlights the critical need for early intervention and education, particularly among the nation's youth.

The "Catch Them Young" Approach

The program's primary focus is on drug abuse education and awareness campaigns, specifically targeting teenagers and young adults. By reaching out to students at the secondary school level, NAFDAC aims to instill knowledge and foster resilience against the dangers of substance abuse at a crucial stage of development.

In addition to the main program, NAFDAC has also introduced a Consumer Safety Club. This initiative is designed to empower students with information and skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that drug abuse encompasses a wide range of substances, including:

• Alcohol

• Pain medications

• Illegal drugs

• Tobacco products

She noted that many of these substances are legally available to adults, making them easily accessible to young people.

The NAFDAC Director General outlined several severe consequences of drug abuse:

• Drug addiction

• Serious impairment of physical and mental functions

• Increased risk of illness and death

• Long-term damage to vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys

• Cognitive impairments affecting memory, learning, problem-solving and concentration

• Risk of developing psychosis, including conditions like schizophrenia, hallucinations or paranoia

Prof. Adeyeye stressed that the ramifications of drug abuse extend far beyond individual health concerns. The epidemic is tearing families apart, diminishing the workforce and destabilizing the nation's economy. She urged young Nigerians to recognize that the fleeting satisfaction derived from substances like tramadol or codeine comes at an enormous cost to their future and the country's well-being.

The launch event at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, demonstrated the collaborative nature of this initiative. School Principal Joseph Akoh expressed gratitude for NAFDAC's choice of their institution for the program's flag-off. He pledged the school's commitment to achieving the objectives of both the Consumer Safety Club and the anti-drug abuse campaign.

Mr. Akoh took the opportunity to address the students directly, imploring them to steer clear of drug abuse and emphasizing its destructive impact on their lives and future prospects.

As NAFDAC rolls out the "Catch Them Young Programme" and the Consumer Safety Club across Nigerian secondary schools, there is hope that this proactive approach will significantly reduce the prevalence of drug abuse among the country's youth. By equipping students with knowledge, awareness and support systems, NAFDAC aims to create a generation of Nigerians who are empowered to make healthy choices and resist the allure of substance abuse.

Source: Daily Trust News 

Related: 

WHO Report Reveals Alarming Alcohol and Drug Use Statistics

Substance abuse in Nigeria: What you need to know

Published: SEPTEMBER 25, 2024

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