Tamunosiki Akpu
The Ese Usamali Foundation for Rural Development (Euforde), a non-governmental organization committed to promoting health, security, and justice for all, has urged the federal government to introduce a specialized curriculum for children aimed at curbing drug use among young people.
Euforde made the call on Thursday in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Mercy Eseroghene Elemchukwu James, in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Rivers State Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Police Force(NPF), Nigerian Civil Defence and Security Commission (NSCDC), the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the global community.
This year’s theme was, ‘The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention.’
Enforced decried the global drug problem which presents a multifaceted challenge that touches the lives of millions worldwide, stressing that the consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime is driving the illicit drug trade with devastating consequences for people and communities.
Euforde hinted that the impact of drugs is far-reaching and complex, adding that it is imperative to adopt a scientific evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.
As an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation against drug abuse.
“We call for setting up of policies that will foster provision of educational opportunities, vocational skills training and other prevention, treatment and care services in line with UNODC-WHO international standards for drug use prevention and treatment disorders, specifically for children and youths at risk of using drugs or exposed to drugs at a very young age.
“Mobilize political will and resources to address this global problem, celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity for the success achieved in reducing the problem, and introduce a child curriculum link aimed to help reduce drug abuse among children.”
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed every year on June 26 boister cooperation and action in achieving a world free of drug abuse and raise awareness on the major problems that illicit drugs represent in the society.
