Worried by the increasing incidence of drug and substance abuse in the country, the Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN) has launched an extensive nationwide awareness campaign to enlighten Nigerians about the dangers not only to human health but also to society at large.

The National Chairman, Pharm, Uchenna Uzoma Apakama, who disclosed this at the 7th public lecture, themed Mental Health as a Basic Human Right: Crucial to Personal, Community, and Socio-Economic Development, emphasized that the board will work tirelessly to bring drug abuse awareness to the nooks and crannies of Nigeria and ensure that every citizen understands the dangers and consequences of substance misuse.

The special guest of honour, Brig. General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd) highlighted the devastating impact of substance abuse, emphasising that “behind every drug user is a family in distress.” He stressed the need for a holistic approach to combat the menace.

Marwa described pharmacists as strategic partners in securing public health and drug control and expressed gratitude for the PSN’s recent efforts in reforming the retail drug sector through the Pharmacists Council Bill Act 2023.

He observed that mental health is central to human development, adding that it represents a state of well-being that enables individuals to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Marwa called for continued collaboration in addressing the illegal sale of prescription medications, adding that the fight against drug abuse must take a holistic approach in which pharmacists play a central role.

On his part, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, reinforced the importance of addressing mental health within the context of substance abuse.

He said, “We live in a time where the mental health of individuals is increasingly becoming a matter of public concern”.

Obasa emphasised that every individual deserves access to mental healthcare irrespective of their socio-economic status, pointing out that untreated mental health issues could destabilise communities and hinder progress.

He cited the Lagos State Mental Health Science Law of 2018, designed to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare, ensuring comprehensive coverage and protection of patient rights. He called on pharmacists to assist in identifying counterfeit drugs and promised ongoing collaboration with the BOF-PSN to ensure comprehensive solutions to these pressing issues.

The keynote speaker, Dr Gbonjubola Abiri, stressed the need for collective responsibility and awareness in tackling both mental health and substance abuse.

She stated that mental health is a fundamental human right and called for a united approach to tackling these societal challenges.