Foundation launches campaign to curb drug abuse in Taraba

The Grace Thomas Foundation, in collaboration with the Christopher Oghogho Foundation, has launched a campaign to curb drug abuse in Taraba state, particularly among youth.

Disturbed by the growing issue of drug abuse, particularly among youth in Taraba state, proactive steps, aimed at equipping families with the essential knowledge and tools needed urgently to combat the menace in the state, were said to have been put in place.

The initiative which was yesterday launched by Grace Thomas Foundation, in collaboration with the Christopher Oghogho Foundation, which was Christian, Women and Family Drug Education Program (WOFADEP), as noticed by our correspondent, was said to have been designed towards addressing the rapid growth of drug abuse, particularly among Taraba youths.

Speaking, at the launch which took place at the multipurpose hall of the Catholic Cathedral in Jalingo, the Chief Executive Officer of Grace Thomas Foundation ,Mrs. Rejoice Henry-Wesley, said a comprehensive education on the nature of addiction, techniques for recognizing signs of drug use, and methods for effective communication within families, have been packaged.

WOFADEP, according to her, “goes beyond education by providing practical strategies for early detection and intervention, as well as ensuring that families are well-prepared to support their loved ones struggling with substance abuse.

“These tools are designed not only to help individuals recover but also to foster healthier dynamics within the family unit.” She said.

Adding that “by empowering families with these resources, WOFADEP aims to create a ripple effect of positive change in communities, reducing the impact of drug abuse and strengthening the bonds that hold families together.”

Captioned “the Role of Family in Drug Abuse Prevention,” the initiative which she said focused on the crucial role families play in prevention and recovery, she believed will go a long way in
transforming the lives of women and youth facing mental health and drug abuse challenges.

The foundation’s comprehensive approach, as reeled out by her, includes “counseling, rehabilitation, mentorship, and skills training,” all of which, as emphazied by her, “aimed at empowering individuals and reintegrating them into society as self-reliant and productive members”.

“The overarching goal is to create a supportive, stigma-free community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” She added.

The Initiative, as also announced by her, is designed to bring together no fewer than 200 families, alongside key stakeholders, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as well as religious bodies within the Jalingo metropolis.

Others persons who bared their minds on the initiative, especially religious and traditional leaders, reiterated their commitments to join forces with the foundation to reduce or eradicate drug abuse from the nooks and crannies of the state.