MTN Intensifies Fight Against Drug Abuse With Youth-focused Strategies

As part of efforts to mark this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Chairman of MTN Nigeria Foundation, Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga, has reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to curbing substance abuse among Nigerian youth through preventive strategies.

Speaking at an event organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Abuja, Dr Belo-Olusoga—represented by Prof Ifeoma Okoye—stressed the importance of collective responsibility in tackling drug abuse, especially among young people.

“With the global theme – The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention – we’re highlighting the urgency of addressing the widespread use, sale, and distribution of psychoactive substances among youth,” she said.

The Foundation’s flagship initiative, the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), launched in 2019, has remained central to MTN’s intervention efforts. Through ASAP, millions have been reached via media campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and community outreach.

“Youth development is a core pillar of our Foundation. ASAP leverages social media, targeted campaigns, and partnerships with the NDLEA and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to raise awareness,” she added.

Dr. Belo-Olusoga highlighted MTN Foundation’s collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly in delivering educational outreach and school engagement programmes.

“In collaboration with NYSC, we’ve engaged 86,400 students and 1,440 teachers from 144 public secondary schools across 12 states through awareness campaigns and quiz competitions,” she said.

The Foundation has also led advocacy walks in tertiary institutions in Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and Lagos, and partnered with NDLEA to support a 24/7 toll-free psycho-social helpline for youth in need.

She added, quoting businesswoman and author Ibukun Awosika, “When you are pursuing your dreams and trying to leave a legacy, you will find help.”

She appreciated the continued support of key partners, including the NDLEA, UNODC, and media practitioners.

“May these partnerships grow stronger as we work to end drug abuse and protect the youth of our dear nation, Nigeria,” she concluded.

The event brought together stakeholders from civil society, government, academia, and the private sector to chart a new prevention-focused course in Nigeria’s fight against illicit drug use.