The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has urged students in Oyo State to steer clear of alcohol and drug consumption, warning of their harmful effects on health and development.
Describing alcoholism as a chronic illness that can begin at any stage of life, including adolescence, NAFDAC highlighted the growing concern of alcohol abuse as a major social issue.
Speaking in Ibadan at the inauguration of the NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club (NCSC) for secondary school students under the theme “Your Future Counts! Say No to Illicit Drugs and Yes to Life,” NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, expressed deep concern over the rising consumption of alcohol among teenagers. Represented by Mrs. Roseline Ajayi, Director of NAFDAC’s South West Zone, Adeyeye emphasized that alcohol consumption negatively impacts adolescents’ physical, emotional, social, and academic growth.
She warned that substance abuse could lead to academic failure, school dropouts, legal troubles, and involvement in harmful behaviors. “Health problems such as poor nutrition, memory disorders, liver disease, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, heart rhythm disturbances, anemia, low blood sugar, and weakened bones are some of the consequences of alcoholism,” she cautioned.
Adeyeye further stressed the need for young Nigerians to resist peer pressure, particularly as alcohol is widely available in sachets and small bottles, making it easily accessible. “Once you start drinking, stopping may become difficult,” she warned.
Highlighting the broader impact of substance abuse, she noted that drug and alcohol addiction is weakening families, crippling the workforce, and destabilizing Nigeria’s economy. “This epidemic is a serious threat to the future of good governance in our country,” she added.
The NAFDAC Catch Them Young Programme, she explained, is a well-structured initiative aimed at reducing drug abuse among secondary school students. Through awareness campaigns, education, and mentorship, the program seeks to equip students with the right knowledge to make informed decisions.
She encouraged students to become agents of change by promoting the values of discipline and responsibility within their schools and communities. “Use your membership in NCSC to support NAFDAC’s regulatory activities and join the fight against drug abuse, fake drugs, and counterfeit products,” she urged.
Reaffirming NAFDAC’s commitment, Adeyeye noted that the agency is working closely with schools to ensure students are protected from the dangers of drug addiction and substance abuse. “This program is not meant to scare you but to have an honest conversation that will help you make better life choices,” she concluded.
