By Adekunle Johnson
The Alumni Association of Nigeria, JAAN, in collaboration with the JICA Nigeria Office, has trained secondary school students in the FCT on mental health and the dangers of drug abuse to the future of young people.
During the Workshop, the Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, Nigeria Office, Yusurio Susumu, emphasized that for any society to be productive, its youth must be free from drug abuse and other elements that hinder their potential.
Susumu, who was represented by the Senior Programme and Administrative Coordinator, Mr. Ozuruoke Kingsley, highlighted the negative impact of substance abuse on individuals and society.
Mr Susumu stressed the importance of addressing the menace of drug abuse among youths, stating that the initiative would significantly contribute to tackling drug abuse in the country.
Also speaking, Assistant Superintendent
of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Adamu Mohammed, noted that many adolescents perceive substance abuse as a sign of civilization.
Some participants expressed optimism that if such workshops are sustained, they will help curb substance abuse among adolescents.
Other speakers at the event called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to combat drug abuse, which continues to have a devastating effect on Nigerian youth.
