NAFDAC warns school children against alcohol abuse

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cautioned school children against alcohol abuse, warning that it could lead to brain damage later in life.

Director General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, issued the warning yesterday during the agency’s “Catch Them Young” programme at Immaculate Heart Comprehensive Senior High School, Mende, Maryland, Lagos.

Represented by Mrs Adenuga Yeduni, Director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances at NAFDAC, Adeyeye highlighted the importance of educating children about the dangers of alcohol abuse, especially as they return to school.

She noted that about 14.3 million Nigerians are affected by drug abuse, adding that the agency is committed to working with stakeholders to implement drug reduction demand initiatives, including drug abuse campaigns targeting young Nigerians.

Adeyeye highlighted research findings that one in four high-risk drug users in the country has been arrested for drug-related offences, underscoring the urgency of the issue.

She said the “Catch Them Young” programme is designed to equip school children with the knowledge to make informed decisions about illicit drug use, including alcohol consumption.

The Principal of Immaculate Heart Comprehensive Senior High School, Mr Boduri Olugbenga James, lauded NAFDAC’s efforts, stating that the programme’s slogan, “Say no to drugs and say yes to life,” encapsulates its purpose. He assured that the school’s management and staff fully support the initiative, as it will help students understand the risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse and encourage them to abstain.