By Al – Nezer Media
In a strategic effort to safeguard the health and future of young Nigerians, the Federal Government, through the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has deepened its collaboration with civil society organisations (CSOs) to confront the growing challenge of drug abuse and vaping, particularly among school-aged youth in Abuja.
At a recent stakeholders’ meeting in the capital, Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the FCTA, Pharm. Boniface Ikwu, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to adopting a broad, community-centered approach to curb the spread of substance abuse in schools, public parks, motor parks, and even government offices.
“We are expanding our sensitisation efforts across schools and institutions, not only in urban centers but throughout all six area councils of the FCT,” Ikwu said. “This is a cross-sectoral issue, and unfortunately, even public servants are not exempt. The strategy must therefore be inclusive, consistent, and deeply rooted in community engagement.”
Part of the FCTA’s evolving strategy includes the rollout of a comprehensive Drug Abuse and Smoke-Free School Policy, designed to create safe, drug-free learning environments. Already, drug-free clubs and counseling units have been established in several schools, reaching thousands of students.
Ikwu highlighted the contributions of key partners, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), faith-based organizations such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and professional bodies like the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists. He acknowledged, however, that ongoing economic challenges and limited funding remain significant barriers to scale.
Among the CSO representatives at the meeting was Ambassador Kenneth Anetor, Executive Director of A New Thing International Foundation and National Vice Chairman of the Association of Advocates Against Alcohol Harm in Nigeria. He emphasized the urgency of the mission, advocating for stronger institutional safeguards for young people.
“Alcohol-free school policies are already global best practice,” Anetor stated. “Nigeria must adopt and domesticate these standards to protect our children. Prevention isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity if we are serious about investing in the next generation.”
Also lending her voice was Omei Bongos, representing Gatefield, who called attention to the growing prevalence of vaping and shisha among adolescents. She warned of the deceptive marketing tactics used by tobacco and vape companies, which often promote their products in appealing flavors like mango and strawberry.
“These devices are not designed to help people quit smoking—they’re meant to initiate a new generation into addiction,” she cautioned. “We need policy reforms that recognize this and act accordingly.”
Gatefield pledged continued support to the FCTA, offering communication resources and policy templates to help schools develop and enforce anti-substance use frameworks.
As conversations around policy, prevention, and protection deepen, stakeholders agreed on the need for a multi-sectoral coordinating body to ensure that efforts are harmonized, properly funded, and impactful across all levels.
The message from the FCTA and its partners is resolute: only through unified, sustained action can we shield the youth of the FCT from the expanding threat of substance abuse and addiction.
