In a decisive move to curb the growing menace of drug and substance abuse in Nigeria, the Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign.
The Initiative was unveiled during the 7th Public Lecture of the BOF-PSN, held in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, National Chairman of the BOF-PSN, Pharm. Uchenna Apakama, said the campaign would extend to all corners of the country to sensitize Nigerians on the dangers and consequences of drug misuse.
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“Under my leadership, BOF will work tirelessly to bring drug abuse awareness to the nooks and crannies of Nigeria,” he declared.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized the crucial role pharmacists play in addressing substance abuse, stating, “Behind every drug user is a family in distress.” He advocated for a holistic approach to drug control, recognizing the central role of pharmacists in public health.
Gen. Marwa also lauded the PSN’s efforts in supporting recent reforms through the Pharmacists Council Bill Act 2023.
Also pledging support, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, underlined the link between mental health and drug abuse, calling for equitable access to mental healthcare.
He referenced the Lagos State Mental Health Law of 2018 and urged pharmacists to help tackle the issue of counterfeit drugs in circulation.
The keynote address was delivered by Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Gbonjubola Abiri, who stressed that mental health is a fundamental human right.
She explained that every individual exists on a mental health continuum and highlighted the need for societal support systems to help people thrive under life’s pressures.
Notable participants at the event included Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC (represented by Dr. Rametu Momodu), PSN President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, and various leaders of pharmacy-related associations and institutions.
The BOF-PSN’s campaign aims to rally communities, health professionals, and policymakers across Nigeria to collectively tackle drug abuse, reduce stigma around mental health, and promote nationwide access to support and rehabilitation.