Anti-Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) Advocacy Walk

NUMSA Represents at MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Program Advocacy Walk

The Nile University Medical Students’ Association (NUMSA) was well represented at the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) Advocacy Walk, held to commemorate The 2024 International Day Against Substance Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking. This significant event was organized in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and other key stakeholders in health, including the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Medical Students’ Associations (NiMSA).

Event Details

NUMSA Representation

NUMSA was proudly represented by key members of the 2023/24 administration, demonstrating our commitment to addressing substance abuse and promoting public health:

• Emmanuel Oranwusi - The NUMSA President
• Abdulazeez Olugbenga Ibrahim - NUMSA Speaker
• Oluwasegun Odunlade - NUMSA Secretary General
• Ugwuanyi Somtochukwu - NUMSA Financial Secretary
• Isabella Oluwademilade Daramola - NUMSA Director of Welfare
• Hyeladzirah Priscilla Mshelbara - Representative of NUMSA House

Event Highlights

The advocacy walk brought together diverse stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, UNODC, WHO, NDLEA, and various medical student associations to emphasize the critical importance of evidence-based prevention strategies in addressing drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

Key Objectives

• Raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse
• Promote evidence-based prevention strategies
• Foster collaboration among health stakeholders
• Advocate for a healthier, drug-free community
• Commemorate the International Day Against Substance Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking

Impact & Significance

This participation underscores NUMSA’s dedication to:

• Public Health Advocacy: Actively engaging in national health initiatives that address critical public health challenges
• Inter-Organizational Collaboration: Working alongside major health organizations and government agencies to amplify our impact
• Evidence-Based Approaches: Supporting prevention strategies grounded in research and best practices
• Community Leadership: Representing Nile University and medical students in important national health conversations

Special Recognition

We extend our sincere gratitude to:

• The organizers of the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Program for creating this impactful platform
• All participants who contributed to making the event a resounding success
• The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Hon. Kachollom Daju S., and the able Representative of the Minister of Health for their valuable comments and support
• All stakeholders who continue to champion the fight against substance abuse

Media & Resources

Looking Forward

NUMSA remains committed to continuing our advocacy for a healthier, drug-free community. We recognize that addressing substance abuse requires sustained effort, evidence-based interventions, and collaborative action across all sectors of society.

As future healthcare professionals, we understand our responsibility to not only treat the consequences of substance abuse but also to prevent it through education, awareness, and community engagement. This event represents one of many steps in our ongoing commitment to public health advocacy.

Event Gallery

Credits

Event: MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) Advocacy Walk
Date: June 26, 2024
NUMSA Representatives: 2023/24 Administration
Partners: MTN Nigeria, NDLEA, UNODC, Federal Ministry of Health, NiMSA, WHO