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Substance abuse remains a pressing issue across the globe, with profound implications for public health, social cohesion, and economic stability. In Nigeria, the statistics are clear: approximately 40%, of the youth population, between the ages of 18-35, are caught in the grip of drug addiction. This trend endangers individual health, undermining the nation’s productivity and progress in the future.
The MTN Foundation, through its Anti Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), has emerged as a pivotal force in the fight against this growing crisis. Launched in 2019, ASAP is a multifaceted initiative designed to raise awareness about the devastating effects of substance abuse and addiction among Nigerian youth. For over 5 years, MTN Foundation has mobilised a coalition dedicated to tackling this issue head-on.
Central to ASAP’s strategy are advocacy walks, educational programs, and stakeholder conferences held across key cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. These initiatives serve to educate and empower communities to take a proactive stance against substance abuse.
One of ASAP’s flagship events is its annual Stakeholder Conference where stakeholders gather to discuss strategies and share insights on combating substance abuse. Similarly, at a national level, the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with MTN and the United Nations on Drug and Crime (UNODC), holds an annual National Conference on World Drug Day, for the same purpose.
This year’s theme, “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention,” shows the importance of early intervention and education in mitigating the impact of substance abuse.
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 MTN ASAP campaign, with its holistic approach and collaborative partnerships, represents a significant source of optimism in this struggle. By fostering a culture of prevention and support, ASAP seeks to deter initial experimentation with drugs and offers a lifeline to those already grappling with addiction.
As Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, aptly puts it, “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.
In conclusion, combating substance abuse is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for Nigeria’s sustainable development. Through initiatives like ASAP, MTN Foundation demonstrates leadership in addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigerian society today.
