FROM RABILU ABUBAKAR, GOMBE
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control ,NAFDAC, has launched its Consumer Safety Club at Government Girls Secondary School, Kaltungo, as part of efforts to combat drug abuse and counterfeit products among youths.
The campaign, tagged “Catch Them Young”, is aimed at sensitizing students to the dangers of drug abuse, fake medicines, and substandard food items. Gombe State was selected as the focal point for the North-East region, with six schools benefiting from the initiative.
Speaking at the event, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the Gombe State Coordinator, James Agada, stressed the devastating impact of peer pressure, which often drives young people into substance abuse.
“Avoid peer pressure. Do not use drugs or allow such habits to develop. Substance abuse has ruined countless lives, leading to addiction, illness, and even heinous crimes like rape and murder”, she warned.
Adeyeye further highlighted the role of teachers in safeguarding students, urging them to be proactive in identifying and addressing harmful behaviors.
“Teachers spend a significant amount of time with students and are in a unique position to guide them. If students cannot open up to their families, they should feel safe talking to their teachers”, she added.
On the significance of the NAFDAC Consumer Safety Club, Adeyeye explained that the initiative empowers youths to serve as agents of change in their communities.
“The club engages young people to help combat counterfeit drugs and unsafe products. If you notice suspicious activities in your neighborhood, report them to your teachers. You are not to confront anyone but to provide valuable information”, she advised.
Assistant Director of NAFDAC, Musa Haruna, delivered a paper titled “The Role of NAFDAC Consumer Safety Clubs ,NCSC”, where he outlined the agency’s mandate to regulate food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices.
He emphasized the positive impact of the NCSC since its launch in 2012, noting its role in reducing the prevalence of substandard products through youth education.
Hajiya Fati Ishiaku Awak, Principal of Government Girls Secondary School, Kaltungo, expressed her appreciation for the initiative and pledged to sustain the programme at the grassroots level.
“This program is a welcome development. We will continue to sensitize our students and ensure the program’s objectives are upheld in our school”, she stated.
NAFDAC’s efforts come amid increasing concerns over drug abuse among Nigerian youths. Through initiatives like this, the agency is intensifying its campaign to promote public health and safety.
