NAFDAC Launches “Catch Them Young” Initiative to Combat Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youthticularly targeting secondary school students. This initiative was officially unveiled at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, by NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who emphasized the critical need for education and awareness in tackling this pressing issue.
In her keynote address, Prof. Adeyeye stated, “The ‘NAFDAC-Catch them Young’ programme focuses on drug abuse education and awareness, especially targeting the youth, who are the most affected by this crisis.” She highlighted concerning statistics revealing that approximately 14.4 percent, or 14.3 million Nigerians, are impacted by drug abuse, underscoring the urgent need for effective intervention strategies.
Prof. Adeyeye further explained that this initiative is part of NAFDAC’s larger strategy to collaborate with key stakeholders to reduce the demand for drugs. She cited alarming data showing that one in four high-risk drug users in Nigeria has faced arrest for drug-related crimes, which include possession (73 percent), theft (12 percent), sex work (5 percent), burglary (4 percent), and shoplifting (2 percent). “These statistics only reflect arrests, but many crimes go unreported, meaning the problem is likely worse than these figures suggest,” she cautioned.
The “Catch Them Young” program aims to educate students about the dangers of both legal and illegal drugs, with a particular emphasis on preventing addiction. “Drug addiction can arise from both legal, prescribed medicines and illicit drugs,” Adeyeye noted, stressing the importance of honest conversations with students rather than resorting to fear tactics.
In her address, she also discussed the broader societal consequences of drug abuse, mentioning that “two-thirds of people who abuse drugs report serious problems, such as missing school or work, poor performance, and even neglect of their families.”
Prof. Adeyeye urged students to be aware of the easy access to commonly abused substances, such as alcohol, tramadol, and prescription medications, which are often available without proper oversight. She explained that many young people turn to online sources for substances claiming to enhance athletic performance or aid in weight loss, which can lead to dangerous habits and escalate into more serious drug use. “Experimenting with harder substances like cocaine or methamphetamine can have devastating effects on one’s health and future,” she warned.
The initiative also highlights the dangers of drug abuse, including impaired judgment, risky behavior, mental health issues, impaired driving, and declining academic performance. “Substance abuse often results in lower grades due to poor attendance,” Adeyeye remarked, adding that drug addiction can lead to severe health issues, including damage to vital organs and impairments in memory and learning.
Prof. Adeyeye encouraged students to resist peer pressure, seek help when needed, and prioritize their education. A critical aspect of the program involves teachers, who play a vital role in identifying behavioral changes and collaborating with parents to address these issues. “Our teachers spend a considerable amount of time with students, and they have a critical role to play in this fight,” she said.
Teachers are urged to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment for students grappling with drug-related issues, offering guidance and assistance as necessary. Additionally, NAFDAC plans to expand its Consumer Safety Club in secondary schools as part of a broader effort to combat counterfeit drugs and promote drug safety.
“We deem it expedient to immunize our society by re-orientating our youths through the activities of the NCSC,” Adeyeye stated. She concluded by encouraging students to “be agents of change” by making responsible decisions and steering clear of the dangers associated with drug abuse.
This initiative represents a significant step towards fostering a healthier and drug-free future for Nigeria’s youth, emphasizing the importance of education, community involvement, and proactive engagement in combating drug abuse.