Over 200 adolescents in secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory were Sensitized on the dangers of drug abuse and mental health awareness.
The sensitization was organized by the Education, Social and Health Mission (MESH), the non-governmental organization (NGO) arm of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), in Abuja.
The Lead Program Officer, MESH, Khadijah Oladipupo, said more than 200 students participated at the annual sensitization workshop for adolescents in secondary schools, themed, ‘Empowering Teens for a Better Tomorrow’.
She said the aim of the workshop was to educate the students on mental health awareness, drug abuse, sexual and gender-based violence, and developing good career choices so as not to be misled in society.
“Adolescence is the developmental transition to adulthood that includes rapid changes in the brain and body often at different rates, healthy exploration of identity and learning independence,” she said.
Executive Director, A New Thing International Foundation, Kenneth Anetor, speaking on ‘Drug Education for Young Adolescents: Increasing knowledge and keeping safe’, said it is important for parents and generality of elders in the country to ensure that youths do not fall into tobacco or other substance use and abuse.
“It is more likely for teenagers that smoke and take other drugs to grow up and be addicted,” he said.
Also, Dr Sa’adatu Adamu of the Secure Future International Initiative, speaking on understanding and supporting teens’ mental-wellbeing, urged parents to help the children build healthy mental stamina and not allow them fall into mental instability.
She said, “Mental health issues during this time, if unaddressed, can impact academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being, potentially persisting into adulthood. Supporting teens’ mental health during this formative period is crucial for their long-term well-being and development.”
Some of the beneficiaries at the workshop thanked the Education, Social and Health Mission (MESH) for organizing such an event, and urged the federal government and state governments to follow suit.
Highlights of the event were presentations by some schools and the presentation of cash prizes to some students who answered questions.
More than 20 schools participated in the event. Present at the workshop include: government officials, security personnel, religious leaders, students, teachers, and members of the press amongst others.