Rejoice Wisely Seeks Stakeholders collaboration in fighting Drugs Abuse

By Genesis ogiri, Abuja

Drug abuse is one of the major challenges across the world as it continues to be a significant threat to global health and social well-being. The way drugs are impacting the youths and hampering their potential highlights the urgent need to find a solution to the drug problem. One such solution is International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed every year on June 26th. The annual campaign aims to raise awareness about the consequences of drug use which include physical and psychological harm, overdose deaths and societal problems.

It is was on this note that,  the Grace Thomas Foundation has organized a one Day sensitization program for Woman and Family on Drug Education ." Theme is on the role of family in preventing drugs abuse . 

The Women and Family Drug Education Program (WOFADEP) has been organized to tackle the problem of drug abuse from a family perspective, emphasizing the crucial role that families can play in preventing drug use. The program’s objectives are to raise awareness about the dangers and repercussions of drug and substance abuse among young people, stimulate discussions on prevention strategies, and contribute to the formulation and implementation of effective policies in Nigeria.” “The program will bring.

The event which took place on Thursday at the Raw material development center in Maitama Abuja 

Ambassador Rejoice Wisely, the founder of Grace Thomas Foundation, stressed the need for stakeholders collaboration in fighting Drugs Abuse.

"Our mission at the Grace Thomas Foundation is to transform the lives of women and youth facing mental health and drug abuse challenges. We are committed to providing comprehensive support through counseling, rehabilitation, mentorship, and skills training. By fostering positive mental health, raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and empowering individuals through economic opportunities, we aim to eradicate poverty and reintegrate them into society as self-reliant and productive members.” 

The Grace Thomas Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of women and youth facing mental health and drug abuse challenges through counseling, rehabilitation, mentorship, and skills training. With the launch of WOFADEP, the foundation hopes to make a significant impact on drug abuse prevention and promote healthier family environments.

She said that the involvement of women and youths in drug abuse had taken on a frightening dimension in Nigeria, adding that drug users now included young people, females, and those living in rural areas.

Rejoice Wisely therefore advised parents and school administrators to be more aware of their children’s behavior and surroundings. “Parents should know their children’s triggers, and school administrators should do a better job of monitoring their environment. Many children are introduced to substances through vendors around schools”, she stated.

"She also said that the problem of drug use among the youth was the problem of everyone, which she said included the parents, the school, the general public, and the youth themselves.

According to her, the youth are the engine room of every society, irrespective of tradition, culture, and religion; they are vibrant, adventurous, energetic, and brilliant.

“Youth exhibit attitude both for the development of society and, at the same time, for the creation of problems in society.

“Drug abuse leads to criminal offences, and this fuels insecurity, such as armed robbery, murder, kidnapping, and banditry, among others.

“This also leads to burglary and sex work. Evidence shows that young people use drugs for various reasons, which include relaxation, experimental/curiosity, and enhancing performance, among others, “he said.

Thursday Newsway reports  according to recent statistics, Nigeria alone has 14.4 per cent drug abuse prevalence rate and it is projected that by 2030, it will rise to 40 per cent if nothing is done.The major concern is that women, especially young girls, are embracing substance abuse. One out of every four drug abusers is a woman and one out of five will suffer substance abuse disorder.“Women are key nurturers, moulders and  caregivers in the society and should not be involved in illicit drug abuse.

The event which featured panel discussion has drawn much evidence and deep the roots causes and prevention from different option.

The Panelists, highlighted signs and symptoms of drug use that parents should look out for, including behavioral changes, unusual possessions, and physical signs like red eyes and darkened lips. “For instance, if a child who is gentle and easy-going suddenly becomes aggressive, you need to suspect drugs. A child who once sat with you to watch television suddenly gets home and stays indoors alone may be having a drug issue,” he said.

Also advised parents to be vigilant and look for signs such as matches, lighters, needles, and syringes in their child’s room, as well as changes in behavior and physical appearance. “If you notice your child bathing several times and using anything that contains menthol to mask any smell, that child is likely to be using drugs. When you notice expensive things are missing in the house, it is a pointer that somebody is using drugs,” he stated.

Dr. James said that the target audience was the right group who mostly fell victim of this menace, adding that most of the social problems being experienced in society today were due to drug abuse.

Dr. James, a psychologist  at the nasarawa State University,  likened the situation of substance abuse by youths to a burning building, stating that the focus had been on the wrong aspect. “We have been focusing on the substance and economic aspects, rather than addressing it as a medical problem. This is why we only see a fraction of the cases, usually when they become severe. Substance abuse is a medical problem, not an economic one,” he said.

"He said Kidnapping, banditry, rape, and armed robbery, among others, are some of the negative consequences of this menace.

“It is derailing the peace, progress, and development of our teaming youth and by extension, the nation, “he said.

Also, the member of Christopher  Onugwu Oghogho Foundation on the sensitisation programme, Selina said that drug abuse was a complex and multifaceted problem that affected individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

"She said that it not only posed serious health risks but also contributed to social and economic challenges.

"She said that youth were the future of the nation and played a vital role in nation-building.

She advised parents to be watchful of their children as their grow up.

According to  Folake Yobah one of the panelists the use of drugs by the youth can have detrimental effects on the nation’s growth and development.

“It can lead to a loss of productivity, increased crime rates, and a burden on the healthcare system.

“Let us therefore pledge to educate, empower, and support our women and youths in making informed decisions and leading healthy lives, “she said.

The highlights of the event was the Free medical outreach

Newsway media reports that various  women, and youths and parents were present at the sensitization and advocacy programmes.