In a significant stride towards combating drug abuse among the youth, Nana Berry Orphanage in Ado, Nasarawa State, celebrated the one-month anniversary of its Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club with a comprehensive Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) program on July 26, 2024.
The event commenced with the national anthem and national pledge, creating a sense of unity and patriotism.
The children of Nana Berry Orphanage introduced the Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation and the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club, highlighting their crucial mission and activities aimed at preventing drug abuse.
A poignant short drama performed by the children depicted the dangers of drug abuse among school children.
The performance concluded with a powerful message, urging children to stay drug-free and encouraging parents to be vigilant in monitoring their children’s activities.
The primary school students further engaged the audience with various poems focused on drug prevention, showcasing their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.
Margaret Kwa’ada Julius, the esteemed founder of the Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation and the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club, graced the event. Julius, a recipient of the prestigious WHO Awards in 2021, 2022, and 2024, and the 2024 Global Award on Prevention and Training on SUD from the Ecolink Institute of Well Being, India, presented free Abstinence Club jackets to the school.
She shared that these jackets were produced using her personal resources, with support from her immediate family, and called upon like-minded individuals and organizations to sponsor and support the club.
Representatives from the NDLEA DDR unit at Abuja headquarters, including Officer Olufemi Daniel and Officer Idris Olalekan, also attended the event. Officer Daniel educated the children on the different types of drugs and their harmful effects, emphasizing the benefits of a drug-free life. Officer Olalekan provided valuable advice on resisting peer pressure and making healthy choices.
On behalf of the NDLEA, the DDR unit presented valuable learning materials to the orphanage, reinforcing their commitment to supporting such vital initiatives. Mrs. Joseph, the head teacher of Nana Berry Orphanage, along with all the children, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Margaret Kwa’ada Julius for establishing the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club at their institution.
The event was a remarkable success, reinforcing the shared mission of preventing drug abuse and promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle among young Nigerians. It highlighted the power of community and the importance of continuous support and education in the fight against substance abuse.
For more information about the Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation and the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club, or to learn how you can support these initiatives, please contact Margaret Kwa’ada Julius
