The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has launched the “Catch Them Young” programme, which aims to combat the growing problem of drug misuse among Nigerian adolescents, 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 stressing the initiative’s relevance.
In her opening remarks, Adeyeye stated:
“The ‘NAFDAC-Catch them Young’ programme focusses on drug abuse education and awareness, especially targeting the youth, who are the most affected by this crisis.”
She cited disturbing numbers, stating that “14.4 per cent, or 14.3 million Nigerians, are victims of drug abuse,” emphasising the importance of the initiative.
She also stated that the effort is part of NAFDAC‘s broader mandate to work with stakeholders on medication demand reduction methods.
According to Adeyeye, one in every four high-risk drug users in Nigeria has been arrested for a drug-related violation.
These crimes range from possession (73%) to theft (12%), sex work (5%), burglary (4%) and shoplifting (2%).
“These statistics only reflect arrests, but many crimes go unreported, meaning the problem is likely worse than these figures suggest,” she cautioned.
The Catch Them Young Programme is designed to educate students on both legal and illegal drugs, with a focus on preventing addiction.
“Drug addiction can arise from both legal, prescribed medicines and illicit drugs,” Adeyeye noted.
She emphasised that the programme’s purpose is “not to scare anyone, but to have honest conversations” with students to help them make informed decisions about drugs and alcohol.
Adeyeye also addressed the broader impacts of drug abuse on society.
“Two-thirds of people who abuse drugs report serious problems, such as missing school or work, poor performance, and even neglect of their families,” she added.
She warned pupils about the dangers of commonly abused substances including alcohol, tramadol, and prescription medicines, which are frequently available without legal prescriptions.
She clarified:
“Many teens may order substances online that promise benefits like improved sports performance or weight loss, but these are dangerous and often lead to more severe drug use.”
Finally, she mentioned that teenagers may experiment with strong substances such as cocaine or methamphetamine, which can have serious ramifications for their health and future.
The NAFDAC project also attempts to raise awareness of the dangers of drug usage, such as poor judgement, risky sexual behaviour, mental health illnesses, impaired driving, and diminishing academic performance.
“Substance use can result in bad grades due to low attendance,” Adeyeye pointed out.
“Drug addiction leads to serious impairments, illnesses, and even death. It damages vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, and impairs memory, learning, and concentration,” she stated, urging students to resist peer pressure, seek professional help if needed, and focus on their studies.
A major component of the programme is the role of teachers.
“Our teachers spend a considerable amount of time with students, and they have a critical role to play in identifying behavioral changes and working with parents to address them,” she said.
Teachers were encouraged to create a supportive environment and avoid being judgmental toward students who may be struggling with drug use.
“Offer non-judgmental support and seek help when needed,” she advised.
NAFDAC also plans to expand its Consumer Safety Club in secondary schools as part of its broader strategy to fight counterfeit drugs and ensure drug safety.
“We deem it expedient to immunize our society by re-orientating our youths through the activities of the NCSC,” Adeyeye stated.
She also urged students to “be agents of change” and make responsible choices that will protect them from the dangers of drug abuse.