In observance of this year’s World Pharmacists’ Day, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Ikeja Zone, has launched a vital outreach programme at Omole Junior and Senior Secondary Schools to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of responsible medication use.
The event, held on 25 September, a day set aside by the FIP to mark World Pharmacists’ Day, highlighting the contributions of pharmacists to global health and promoting the responsible use of medicines; gathered over 300 students from various classes at the Assembly Ground to engage them in interactive sessions aimed at raising awareness about the rising trend of drug abuse among young people.
The association’s sub-theme for this year’s World Pharmacists Day, “Pharmacy: Always Trusted for Your Health,” underscores the essential role pharmacists play in safeguarding public health and combating substance abuse.
Addressing the students, Pharm. Imade Roy-Ekekwe, coordinator, ACPN, Ikeja Zone, emphasised the need for young people to understand the risks associated with drug misuse. “As future leaders, you have the power to make informed choices. Substance abuse can have devastating effects on your health and future. It is vital to talk about these issues and empower you with the knowledge to resist peer pressure,” she stated.
She noted that the programme was part of the ideals of the association, urging the students to shun irrational use of drugs and other unwholesome conducts, in order to safeguard their future and reduce the burden of diseases in the society.
She further admonished the youngsters to avoid drug abuse based on peer pressure, noting that many young people had destroyed their future as a result of using illicit drugs.
Also speaking, Pharm. Chisom Onyejegbu, secretary, ACPN, Ikeja Zone, said the essence of the event was to educate and sensitise the students on the dangers and consequences of drug abuse which according to him is on the increase in the recent past, saying all hands must be on deck to curb the menace before it is too late.
“These children are our future; so the earlier we start protecting their future, the better for our nation, because by the time we leave, they are the ones that will take over,” She said.
In her response, the Principal, Omole Junior Secondary School, Mrs Adeola Kazeem, commended ACPN for their efforts, stating, “This initiative is crucial in guiding our students to make healthy choices. Education is a powerful tool in preventing drug abuse, and we are grateful for the support of community pharmacists.”
Also responding, the duo of Raphael Abel, and Oluwashindara Oladipupo, the head boy and head girl, expressed their appreciation for the initiative, stating, that “This session has opened our eyes to the reality of drug abuse. We now understand that it’s not just about illegal drugs; even prescription medications can be harmful if misused.”
The event concluded with a call to action from ACPN, Ikeja Zone, urging students to share the knowledge gained with their peers and families, fostering a community-wide dialogue about drug abuse prevention.
Through initiatives like this outreach, ACPN aims to engage the younger generation in conversations about drug safety and health awareness, ultimately working towards a healthier future.
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