By Ayomide Otitoju
The MTN Foundation has announced an escalation in its efforts to combat substance abuse among Nigerian youth through its Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), launched in 2019.
This initiative is a response to alarming statistics indicating that approximately 40% of Nigerians aged 18-35 are struggling with drug addiction. ASAP aims to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of substance abuse through advocacy walks, educational programmes, and stakeholder conferences in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
In a statement released on Monday, the foundation disclosed partnerships with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to host the annual National Conference on World Drug Day, underscoring the importance of early intervention and prevention.
“The urgency of addressing substance abuse cannot be overstated. Beyond its immediate health consequences, substance abuse erodes social cohesion, diminishes educational attainment, and hampers economic progress,” the statement highlighted.
The MTN ASAP campaign, with its holistic approach and collaborative partnerships, represents a significant source of optimism in this struggle, the foundation stated. By fostering a culture of prevention and support, ASAP aims to deter initial experimentation with drugs and offers a lifeline to those already grappling with addiction.
MTN Foundation’s Executive Director, Odunayo Sanya, emphasized the collective responsibility in tackling this issue, stating, “It is everyone’s fight because their high is our low.” This sentiment resonates deeply as Nigerians unite under the banner of ASAP, reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the well-being and future of the nation’s youth.
Through its advocacy walks and educational initiatives, MTN Foundation and its partners reaffirm their resolve to combat substance abuse and empower a generation resilient to its influence.
