…launches National Catch Them Young programme
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched the ‘Catch Them Young’ initiative, a programme aimed at educating young Nigerians about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.
Speaking on Thursday at the flag-off ceremony and the launch of NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club at Government Secondary School, Wuye, Abuja, the Director General (DG), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, highlighted the urgent need to tackle drug abuse, particularly among teenagers, who represent a vulnerable segment of society.
According to her, the initiative, which has been launched in 48 schools across the six geo-political zones, including Lagos and FCT, is part of NAFDAC’s broader mandate to collaborate with stakeholders in reducing drug demand and combating substance abuse.
Other schools across the country would benefit from the initiative, she assured.
With an estimated 14.4 percent of Nigerians, approximately 14.3 million people affected by drug abuse, the urgency of intervention cannot be overstated, she said.
The DG emphasized the importance of children avoiding drug and alcohol abuse, citing research that shows that one in four high-risk drug users has been arrested for drug-related offenses, including possession (73%), theft (12%), sex work (5%), burglary (4%), and shoplifting (2%).
She said: “However, these figures only reflect reported cases, suggesting the actual numbers could be significantly higher.
“Additionally, two-thirds of drug users experience serious consequences, such as absenteeism from school or work, poor performance, and neglect of family responsibilities.
“These challenges highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address drug abuse and safeguard society”.
Given this, she said recognizing the devastating impact of substance abuse, the Catch Them Young program is a structured, long-term initiative aimed at educating secondary school students on the dangers of drug use.
Explaining the need for the initiative, Adeyeye, who was represented by Deputy Director of Narcotics, Paul Kamai, noted that teenagers are especially vulnerable, often experimenting with substances like alcohol and tobacco that are legally accessible to adults.
“The programme seeks to engage students in honest discussions about the realities of drug abuse, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed choices.
“NAFDAC also aims to raise awareness about controlled substances, medicinal drugs regulated due to their potential for abuse, dug diversion, among several others.
“This is because the trend has contributed to a growing public health crisis, with prescription drug abuse becoming increasingly common.
“Many people purchase antibiotics, tramadol, and other potent drugs without proper prescriptions, exacerbating the problem and this is what we want to, as much as possible discourage in our younger population,” she said.
Responding, the Vice Principal (Academic), Eddie Bridget, representing the Principal, praised NAFDAC for the initiative, describing the club’s launch as a step in the right direction.
She expressed concern over the rising involvement of young people in alcoholism and drug abuse, warning of its serious consequences for individuals, families, communities, and the nation.
“This is a significant occasion for our school, and we feel privileged to have been selected for this initiative.
“We hope that through this club, students will be educated on the dangers of drug abuse and alcoholism, helping them to build a better Nigeria.
“The rising cases of alcoholism and drug abuse in society are deeply concerning. NAFDAC’s intervention will be beneficial, as it provides much-needed awareness that can deter students from engaging in substance abuse.
“With the knowledge gained, they can serve as ambassadors, educating their peers, relatives, and communities on the harmful effects of drug abuse and alcoholism.
“This initiative will also support us teachers in guiding our students and contribute to reducing substance abuse within society,” she said.
The students participated in a question-and-answer session, where they were tested on their knowledge of NAFDAC and its operations.
They were also educated on the dangers of drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption, peer pressure, stigmatization, and their responsibilities as ambassadors and club members.
A key moment of the event was the presentation of essential ICT equipment and awareness campaign materials to the school.
The Deputy Director of Narcotics, Paul Kamai, on his part, noted that the ‘Catch Them Young’ initiative is a call to action for the young Nigerians to safeguard their future by making responsible choices.
“By prioritizing education, resisting negative influences, and staying informed, adolescents can avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse and contribute positively to their communities.
“Through collective efforts from students, teachers, parents, and policymakers, we are hopeful that we can curb the rising tide of substance abuse and ensure a healthier, more productive generation,” he said.
