Japanese Agency Campaigns On Dangers Of Adolescents’ Substance Abuse In Abuja Schools
By Juliet Vincent
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and its Alumni Association of Nigeria (JAAN) and other stakeholders have called on students as adolescents to avoid substance abuse because it will deprive them of having a meaningful life.
They made the call at a one-day workshop organized for some secondary schools held at Catherina International Academy, Abuja.
In his welcome Address by the President, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and its Alumni Association of Nigeria (JAAN), Ahmed Agberankhe, said, the increase in substance abuse among Adolescents is of great concern and needs to addressed in all possible ways to save the generations being hit hard and lost to drugs.
He said, the objective of the sensitisation workshop by the association was to help build a strong society and strengthen the existing economic and cultural ties between Nigerian and Japan.
He added, “As we all know that, Adolescence stage (10-19 years) is a very rapid and critical development stage characterised by significant physical, emotional and social changes.
“Mental issues are one very important aspect that, if left unaddressed can have long lasting effects on the adolescents’ well-being, relationships and future prospects”.
Presenting a paper titled ‘Substance Abuse And Addiction In The Adolescent’ Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, Drugs Demand Reduction Unit, NDLEA, Nassarawa State Command, Adamu Mohammed stated that, substance abuse and addiction among adolescents is a significant public health condition which affects physical, social and mental health.
He however advised that, in order to tackle substance abuse among adolescents through effective prevention strategies which include; proper education; engaging Youths in positive activities and building a strong family relationships.
According to him, the Adolescent is a critical and complex stage in which children are most vulnerable to substance abuse.
Speaking, the Chief representative, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Susumu Yuzurio who was represented by the Chief Programme Officer, Mr Kingsley Ozorike stated that, there is need to step up the campaign against substance abuse especially for children in their formative, Adolescent years.
He promised that, JICA will continue to collaborate with stakeholders on the country through programs that will help make life better for the young generations of Nigerians.
He further noted that, the fight against substance abuse is a fight that must be won because it affects the foundation of societies by destroying its youths.
Highlight of the event was a short drama by the students of Catherina International Academy which shows the dangers of substance abuse.
