NAFDAC advises youths to shun use of illicit drugs, alcohol
By Our Correspondent.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cautioned Nigerians, particularly youths, against drug abuse, describing the menace as a threat to the future of the country.
Speaking at the “Catch Them Young” programme held at Muhammadu Kobo Secondary School, Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Christianah Adeyeye, represented by the State Coordinator, Pharmacist James Kigbu, said 14.3 million Nigerians were confirmed victims of drug abuse.
Adeyeye described the statistic as alarming and emphasized the need for collective efforts to combat the menace.
She explained that the “Catch Them Young” programme was designed to reduce the prevalence of drug and substance abuse among secondary school students.
The NAFDAC boss expressed concern about the illicit substances that were readily accessible and available, such as alcohol and tobacco.
She noted that adolescence was a time for experimentation, which was where the problem often started.
During the event, the NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club (NCSC) was re-established at the school, with 175 students inaugurated as members. The club was inaugurated by the State Coordinator of NAFDAC.
Adeyeye charged the students to take the fight against drug abuse seriously, describing it as a fight for the future of Nigeria.
The Principal of the school, Dr Abubakar Mohammed, commended NAFDAC for re-establishing the club and advised the students to stay away from drugs.
The Chairman, Association of Principals (AN COPSS), Mr Abdulmalik Ndagi, expressed happiness that NAFDAC was showing concern for the future of the youths.
He urged the agency to sustain its efforts in combating drug abuse.
The “Catch Them Young” programme is part of NAFDAC’s statewide youth engagement drive aimed at sensitising young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
