The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unveiled a nationwide campaign, “Catch Them Young,” targeting drug abuse prevention among teenagers and youths in Nigeria. The initiative was officially launched on Wednesday at Government Girls Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt.
NAFDAC Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the South-South Zone Director, Pharmacist Oligbu Chukwuma, emphasized the campaign’s urgency. She revealed that 14.4% of Nigerians—approximately 14.3 million people—are victims of drug abuse, underscoring the critical need for intervention.
“As part of its mandate, NAFDAC seeks to collaborate with stakeholders on drug reduction programs, including campaigns targeting secondary schools, to address the alarming menace of drug abuse among young Nigerians,” Adeyeye stated.
The “Catch Them Young” initiative aims to educate secondary school students on the dangers of addiction and empower them to make informed decisions regarding drug use, including alcohol consumption. The program prioritizes prevention through honest conversations rather than fear tactics.
Highlighting research findings, Adeyeye noted that one in four high-risk drug users has faced legal troubles, including arrest for possession, theft, burglary, and other drug-related offenses. She emphasized that drug addiction stems from both legal substances, such as prescribed medications, and illicit drugs.
The campaign will be rolled out across secondary schools in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. In Rivers State, the pilot phase will cover six schools, with two institutions selected from each senatorial district. Government Girls Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, is among the inaugural beneficiaries.
Speaking at the event, NAFDAC Rivers State Coordinator, Pharmacist Onogwu Emmanuel, explained the program’s objectives, which include building capacity and raising awareness about drug abuse among youths. He highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping the nation’s drug prevention initiatives.
“The youths are the nation’s builders and future leaders. Their involvement in preventing drug abuse is vital for securing Nigeria’s future,” Emmanuel stated.
He added that the program, which was flagged off on September 20, 2024, at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Abuja, is designed to educate young Nigerians about the risks of drug abuse and promote healthier lifestyles.
Gladys Iheumamme, Principal of Government Girls Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, lauded NAFDAC’s efforts and called for sustained support to ensure the program’s success. “Sustainability is vital. Many programs have failed due to lack of resources. We pledge to work in synergy with NAFDAC to make this initiative a success,” she said.
