The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has raised an urgent alert concerning the rising risks of alcohol and drug abuse among students as they return to school. The warning follows a recent viral video showing students being dangerously transported in a public service vehicle, raising concerns about their exposure to substance abuse during transit.
In an official statement, NACADA emphasized that both private and public vehicles have become potential hotspots for the distribution and consumption of alcohol and drugs, particularly during this critical period of student travel. The authority highlighted that students are under increasing pressure both within and outside the school environment, which can lead to heightened substance use.
Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, NACADA’s Chief Executive Officer, urged parents, guardians, and school authorities to be extra vigilant in safeguarding children against these dangers. “It is our collective responsibility to protect our children from the dangers posed by alcohol and drug use. Parents should closely monitor their children’s travel arrangements and ensure they are aware of the risks involved during transit,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.
NACADA has called on schools to take proactive measures by educating students on the risks associated with substance abuse. Schools are encouraged to implement preventive strategies such as awareness campaigns, peer support groups, and counseling services to address this growing concern.
The authority also issued a stern warning to transport operators, urging them to refrain from allowing students who appear intoxicated to board their vehicles. “No one should allow students to board public or private vehicles if they display signs of being under the influence of substances,” the statement read, adding that such actions not only endanger the students themselves but also pose significant risks to other road users.
NACADA has provided a toll-free number, 1192, for the public to report any incidents related to drug and substance abuse. The hotline is available 24 hours a day.
As the new school term begins, NACADA’s alert serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing fight against substance abuse and the collective role of parents, schools, and the community in protecting the nation’s youth.
