The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is stepping up efforts to tackle drug abuse and vaping among school children in Abuja. Working with civil society groups, the FCTA has launched awareness programs across all six area councils.
Pharm. Boniface Ikwu, FCTA’s Director of Pharmaceutical Services, said the campaign targets schools, public spaces, and government offices. A new Drug Abuse and Smoke-Free School Policy has also been introduced, creating drug-free clubs and counseling units in many schools.
Key partners include the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Christian Association of Nigeria. However, funding challenges remain.
Ambassador Kenneth Anetor urged stronger policies to protect children, while Gatefield representatives warned about the rising trend of vaping among teens and called for urgent reforms.
Stakeholders agreed on the need for a coordinated effort to ensure lasting success in protecting children from substance abuse in the FCT.
