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…As MTN Foundation holds anti-substance abuse advocacy walk
Source: Chioma Obinna
At just 35, Nick A. (not his real name), a successful trader and firstborn of four sons, stood before a crowd at a drug abuse awareness event in Lagos, reflecting on a journey that began with a bottle of beer and nearly ended in tragedy.
“It started as fun,” Nick recalled. “I was with my cousins; they gave me beer. They didn’t want me to smoke, but curiosity got the better of me. That’s how it all began.”
Nick shared his harrowing story during an event organized by the MTN Foundation to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
What began at age 13 quickly spiraled from alcohol and cigarettes into marijuana, pills, and harder substances. Despite performing well in secondary school, his addiction worsened during university, ultimately leading to a mental breakdown.
“I lost my sanity. I became psychotic. That was my lowest point,” he said. “I knew I needed to change.”
Nick’s story underscored the urgency echoed throughout the event, which included a community advocacy walk from Gbagada Estate to the UNILAG gate in Akoka, Lagos. The campaign was backed by the NDLEA, behavioral experts, government officials, and educators.
Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, led the rallying cry:
“Drug abuse is destroying families and robbing us of future leaders. Prevention is cheaper than cure. We must educate our children early, observe the signs, and provide timely interventions.”
She emphasized that tackling drug abuse must involve parents, teachers, religious leaders, and communities, noting, “No one is safe if drug abuse continues unchecked.”
Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga, Chairperson of the MTN Foundation, stressed the need to cut substance abuse off at the root:
“Peer pressure, idleness, and negative parental influence are major drivers. We believe prevention begins with awareness and education.”
She encouraged parents to be better role models and urged youths never to “even experiment.”
Commander Abubakar Liman Wali of NDLEA Lagos Command acknowledged that law enforcement alone cannot solve the drug crisis.
“Prevention through education and youth engagement is critical,” he said, praising the campaign’s focus on early intervention.
Prof. Ifeoma Okoye, Director at the MTN Foundation, emphasized grassroots involvement:
“In rural areas, youths are abusing substances like lizard feces. Parents often don’t even know these dangers exist. We must bring the conversation home.”
Dr. Itunuoluwa Onifade, a behavioral psychologist, added that understanding one’s triggers, values, and strengths is crucial to avoid relapse.
“Resilience is like an emotional bank—you need to deposit daily through self-care and awareness, so you have something to withdraw when times are tough,” she said.
The event concluded with a resounding message: addiction is preventable, and recovery is possible. Nick’s story served as a beacon of hope for others battling similar demons.
“This fight is for everyone,” Prof. Okoye said. “Whether in urban centers or rural communities, we all have a role to play.”
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