The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has officially launched the “Catch Them Young” program aimed at addressing the rising issue of drug abuse among Nigeria’s youth, particularly in secondary schools. The unveiling ceremony took place on Friday at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, with NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, highlighting the initiative’s significance.
In her keynote address, Prof. Adeyeye emphasized the urgent need for drug abuse education and awareness among young people, noting that 14.4 percent, or approximately 14.3 million Nigerians, are victims of drug abuse. “The ‘Catch Them Young’ program focuses on educating youth about drug abuse, as they are among the most affected,” she stated.
The initiative aims to collaborate with stakeholders to implement effective drug demand reduction strategies. Prof. Adeyeye pointed out that one in four high-risk drug users in Nigeria has been arrested for drug-related offences, which include possession, theft, sex work, burglary, and shoplifting. She warned that these statistics may not fully capture the extent of the problem, as many incidents go unreported.
The program will provide students with knowledge about both legal and illegal drugs, aiming to prevent addiction. “Drug addiction can arise from both prescribed medicines and illicit drugs,” she noted, stressing the importance of honest discussions with students to help them make informed choices.
Prof. Adeyeye also addressed the broader societal impacts of drug abuse, stating that two-thirds of individuals who abuse drugs report serious life problems, including poor academic performance and family neglect. She cautioned against commonly abused substances, such as alcohol and prescription drugs, which are often easily accessible.
The initiative encourages teachers to play a pivotal role in identifying behavioral changes in students and fostering a supportive environment. Prof. Adeyeye urged educators to provide non-judgmental support and to seek help for students struggling with substance use.
As part of its strategy to combat counterfeit drugs and ensure drug safety, NAFDAC plans to expand its Consumer Safety Club in secondary schools. Prof. Adeyeye called on students to become “agents of change” and to make responsible choices to protect themselves from the dangers of drug abuse.
