Health, Health Briefs
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Tuesday inaugurated the NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club (NCSC) at Government Day Secondary School (GDSS), Karu, Abuja.
At the event, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasised that the initiative was part of the agency’s efforts to combat drug abuse and the intake of illicit substances among Nigerian youths.
Adeyeye, represented by Dr Paul Kamai, Deputy Director in charge of Narcotics in the FCT, highlighted the increasing risks posed by counterfeit drugs, substance abuse, and self-medication.
She urged students of GDSS Karu to take responsibility for their futures and avoid harmful substances.
She also stated that the inauguration of the NCSC was a significant step in NAFDAC’s ongoing campaign to protect young Nigerians from the dangers of drug abuse.
Adeyeye reinforced the message that the future of the youth depends on the choices they make today, whether right or wrong.
“We established the NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club to enlighten students about the dangers of drug abuse and alcohol consumption.
“Young people are the future of our country, and we must equip them with the right knowledge to make informed decisions that will keep them safe and healthy,” she stated.
She further encouraged the school’s authorities, teachers, and parents to continue reinforcing the lessons learned through the NCSC initiative.
“Our young ones need constant guidance and mentorship to resist the temptation of illicit drugs.
“I encourage the school’s guidance and counselling unit to take up this responsibility, ensuring students stay informed and protected,” Adeyeye stressed.
Adeyeye also emphasised that with collective efforts, a healthier future for the youth could be achieved.
Nura Aminu from NAFDAC’s Pharmacovigilance Directorate spoke to the students, educating them on the harmful effects of drug abuse on their mental and physical health.
He explained the difference between counterfeit and substandard drugs and provided tips on how to identify and avoid them.
Aminu also encouraged the students to join the club, emphasising the importance of their involvement in the fight against drug abuse to keep society safe.
The Principal of GDSS, Mrs Omotolani Akinje, expressed gratitude to NAFDAC for introducing the initiative to the school.
She acknowledged that many students were unaware of the dangers of drug abuse, often succumbing to peer pressure.
“Many of them don’t know the implications of taking illegal drugs. Sometimes, they get introduced to it by their friends without understanding the dangers.
“But with this foundation laid by NAFDAC, we will continue mentoring our students through our guidance and counselling unit to ensure they stay away from drugs,” she said.
Gideon Ogbonna, an SS2 student at GDSS, said that he had learned about the different illicit drugs and their effects on mental health.
“Now, if my friends are talking about these things, I will understand and be able to make the right choices,” he said.
Similarly, Gladys Nnamani, another student, expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained from NAFDAC, especially its role in regulating drugs and ensuring consumer safety.
“I learned about the street names of drugs and how people use them to deceive others.
“This knowledge will help me to stay away from drug abuse and report any suspicious activities,” she said.(NAN)
E.A
Feb. 4, 2025
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