To transform the lives of women and youths facing mental health and drug abuse challenges, and to provide comprehensive support through counselling, rehabilitation, mentorship and skills training, the Grace Thomas Foundation, in collaboration with the Christopher Oghogho Foundation, has launched the Women and Family Drug Education Program (WOFADEP) to tackle the growing issue of drug abuse in Nigeria.
The program, themed "The Role of Family in Drug Abuse Prevention," aims to tackle the problem of drug abuse from a family perspective, emphasising the crucial role that families can play in preventing drug abuse.
This initiative according to Mrs Wesley, is to raise awareness about the dangers and repercussions of drug and substance abuse among young people, simulate discussion on prevention strategies and contribute the foundation, formulation and implementation of effective policies in Nigeria.
She said, WOFADEP is set to bring together 200 families along with key stakeholders including the National Drug Law Enforcement agency, the National Youth Service Corp, within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
She added that the aim is to assess the ongoing fight against drug and substance abuse, share best practises from around the world and develop a unified approach to tackling these issues.
"The workshop will commence in the production of a communique and position paper which will outline potential solutions to reduce drug abuse and related crimes. This document will be submitted to regulatory authorities for consideration and action, ensuring that the insights and recommendations from the workshop contributes to broader policy and societal changes.
Giving the objectives of WOFADEP, Mrs Wesley stressed that it's to Inspire and empower families: "Our primary goal is to inspire and empower families, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools to combat drug abuse by transforming families into proactive change agents and ambassadors for drugAbuse prevention. We aim to create a ripple effect within communities, fostering environment that are resistant to the influence of drugs.
"Secondly, education for families: A significant component of WOFADEP is the education of parents, guardians and relatives of individuals struggling with drug use or addiction. The programme will provide them with the knowledge and tools needed to support their loved ones effectively. This education will encompass understanding the nature of addiction, recognising signs on drug use and learning how to communicate and intervene constructively.
"Interventions and Responses: WOFADEP will offer practical strategies and intervention to address drug problems within the family. This will include methods for early detection, effective communication technique, and steps to take in seeking professional help. Our goal is to help families manage and mitigate the impact of drug use, fostering a supportive environment for recovery.
"Coping Strategies: The programme will also provide behavioral strategies to help families cope with the effect of drug use. These strategies will promote healthier family dynamics and support systems, ensuring that all family members are equipped to handle the emotional and Psychological challenges associated with the loved ones use of drug. Support for family needs: Families often have their own needs when dealing with a relative's drug use. WOFADEP will guide families in addressing these needs while providing effective support to the drug use relatives. This approach ensures that the entire family unit is supported and resilient.
"Mitigating Negative Effects: Efforts will be made to reduce the negative effect of substance misuse on other family members. This involves creating a safe and supportive environment, promoting open communication, and ensuring that all family members. Have access to the resources and support they need to maintain their well-being."
In her remarks, a representative from Christopher Oghogho Foundation, Mrs. Celina Onogwu, expressed her organization's full support for the Grace Thomas Foundation's program on drug abuse prevention.
Mrs Onogwu emphasized the importance of addressing drug abuse, particularly among women, as it affects families negatively.
She anticipates that the program's outcomes will be taken to the government to collaborate and drive the effort to curb drug abuse in Nigeria.
She acknowledged the need to reach rural areas, where drug abuse is also prevalent, and expressed the intention to take the message to these areas
Also in her remarks, Assistant Commander of Narcotics, Precious Obiageli of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, the family is the foundation of society, and any issues within the family can have far-reaching effects. Therefore, it's crucial to address drug abuse within the family unit, teaching coping strategies and effective communication skills. Love and support are essential in preventing drug abuse, and families must be aware of the dangers of drug abuse and how to address them.
She noted that, NDLEA is partnering with community leaders and families to reach the grassroots level, particularly in rural areas where drug abuse is prevalent. "They work with NGOs to conduct awareness programs and educate communities about the dangers of drug abuse.
NDLEA she said, has a presence in almost every community in Nigeria, with commands in states, zones, and areas, making it possible to reach remote areas.
"To combat drug abuse effectively, it's essential to start at the family level. Parents must be aware of the signs of drug abuse and know how to address them. NDLEA provides awareness and support to families, and NGOs play a crucial role in reaching the grassroots level. By working together, we can prevent drug abuse and promote healthier families and communities."
The Grace Thomas Foundation is committed to fostering positive mental health, raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and empowering individuals through economic opportunities, aimed to eradicate poverty and reintegrate them into society as self-reliant and productive members of the Society.
The Grace Thomas Foundation ultimate goal is to create a supportive and Stigma free community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The Grace Thomas Foundation core values are the guiding principles that shape our mission and dry our actions. These values reflection, our commitment to the community and our dedication to make a positive impact in lives of women and youth facing mental health. And drug abuse challenges.
