The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the rising issue of illicit drug abuse among Nigeria’s youth. The project, titled “NAFDAC-Catch Them Young Consumer Safety Club,” was officially inaugurated at Ajibode High School in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday. The initiative, which targets secondary school students in the South-West zone, seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and empower young people to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who was represented by Mrs. Roseline Ajayi, the NAFDAC Director for the South-West zone, emphasized the importance of educating the younger generation on the dangers of drug abuse. She highlighted that the campaign is essential for securing Nigeria’s future, with a strong focus on educating students about the negative impact of drug abuse, including the misuse of alcohol.

The “Catch Them Young” initiative, which kicked off in January in the South-West zone, aims to engage secondary school students in a meaningful way, educating them about the dangers of drug abuse, mental health risks, and the consequences of high-risk sexual behavior often associated with substance misuse. According to Adeyeye, drug abuse among teenagers has far-reaching effects, contributing to poor academic performance and mental health disorders. By taking the campaign directly to schools, NAFDAC hopes to catch young people before they fall into destructive habits, ensuring they understand the risks of drug use and its long-term consequences.

The agency’s goal is clear: to foster a future generation of Nigerians who are not only equipped with knowledge but also empowered to demand integrity and ethical behavior in their communities. “We are not just teaching them about drug abuse,” Adeyeye explained. “We are teaching them how to make informed choices that will positively shape their futures and prevent lives of addiction and destruction.”

By re-establishing the National Consumer Safety Club (NCSC) in schools, NAFDAC is working hand-in-hand with teachers and educational institutions to create a sustainable solution to Nigeria’s drug abuse crisis. The initiative’s overarching goal is to reduce the growing prevalence of substance misuse by fostering a culture of responsibility, where the youth are not only educated but also motivated to be active participants in the fight against drug abuse.

With this innovative approach, NAFDAC is not just addressing the symptoms of drug abuse but is focusing on prevention through education and community involvement. The hope is that, by targeting the youth early, Nigeria can curb the tide of illicit drug use and its damaging effects on society. This initiative represents a proactive and long-term solution to a pressing national issue, positioning Nigeria’s youth as the leaders in the battle against drug abuse and its related challenges.

A group of armed robbers, believed to be illegal miners, launched a raid on MI Wushishi Estate in Minna, Niger State, on Saturday, stealing valuables and cash from six flats. The attack, which occurred around 2 a.m., lasted for more than an hour without any intervention from security forces.

The estate, which houses over 700 flats, has been repeatedly targeted by criminal gangs linked to illegal mining activities in the area, which is known for its rich gold deposits. Residents expressed growing concern over these attacks, which have left them feeling unsafe.

One resident, Abdullahi Abubakar, recalled a similar robbery in November when multiple homes in the estate were ransacked. “The illegal miners have made it impossible for us to live peacefully,” he said.

Dan Yaya, the son of a former Head of Service in the state, shared his frightening experience during the latest raid. He described how the robbers, after entering the compound, threatened his family and demanded money. He was forced to hand over N29,000 and mobile phones. Yaya also suspected that the robbers had inside knowledge of the estate’s layout, as one of them wore a mask and appeared familiar with the area.

In response, Commissioner for Homeland Security, Muhammad Bello, confirmed the robbery and assured that security agencies were actively addressing the situation. However, the Niger State Police Command spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, stated that no formal report of the incident had been filed with the police.

The Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG) in a press statement by its President , Barr. Adefila Kamal congratulates Dr. Sanusi Mohammed on the well-deserved elongation of his tenure as the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), commencing from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2027. He was first appointed in 2015.

Adefila said, Over the years, CSNGG has had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Sanusi Mohammed, whose leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the development of Nigerian football have been evident in his performance. His reappointment is a clear reflection of his track record and the confidence reposed in him by stakeholders in the sports sector.

The statement further states that Dr. Sanusi’s stewardship has been instrumental in fostering progress and stability within Nigerian football, including the growth of grassroots initiatives, improvement of national team performances, and the enhancement of administrative structures within the NFF. His leadership has provided a firm foundation upon which Nigerian football continues to rise, both on the continent and globally.

The Civil Society Network for Good Governance said it has no doubt that Dr. Sanusi Mohammed will continue to give his best in this new chapter, as he has always demonstrated excellence, passion, and integrity in service to the nation. “We remain committed to partnering with the NFF and its leadership to ensure Nigerian football achieves greater heights”.

Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Sanusi Mohammed and wish him a highly successful tenure ahead.