In a bold step towards curbing alcohol harm in Nigeria, the Association of Advocates Against Alcohol Harm In Nigeria (ASAAHN) has officially launched its media campaign to foster stronger collaborations with stakeholders and push for the adoption and implementation of the National Alcohol Policy.
The Twitter Space Launch on Advocacy on Alcohol Harm in Nigeria witnessed the presence of key local and international stakeholders standing in solidarity with ASAAHN. The Board Chairman, Mr. Kene Ujam, in his opening remarks, welcomed all participants, appreciated their commitment, and set the stage for the impactful discussions that followed.
The first speaker, Dr. Franklin Umenze, former National Chairman of ASAAHN, provided a comprehensive overview of ASAAHN’s formation, its unwavering stance against alcohol harm, and the ongoing policy briefs and advocacy efforts aimed at effecting meaningful change.
Mrs. Maria Ilugbuhi a Substance Use Prevention Specialist, the second speaker, delivered an insightful presentation on “Youth and Alcohol: Addressing Underage drinking and Harm Reduction Strategies”, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive measures to protect young people from the harms of alcohol consumption.
Speaking at the event, she said, underage drinking is a widespread issue affecting many young lives. According to the World Health Organization, 26.5% of 15 to 19 year-olds worldwide are current drinkers. This translates to approximately 155 million adolescents. In Nigeria, a study found that 40% of adolescents aged 10-19 had consumed alcohol in the past year. This is alarming, considering the potential consequences, she added.
She went further to discuss the consequences of underage drinking which include; Impaired brain development leading to problems with memory, learning, and decision-making.
She said that one of the ways to prevent this crisis is to ensure that laws and regulations prohibiting the sale of alcohol to minors are strictly enforced.
ASAAHN received felicitations from distinguished stakeholders and partners, including:
- ISAAC Africa
- Uganda Alcohol Policy Alliance (UGAPA)
- ISSUP Nigeria
And other committed individuals and organizations dedicated to public health advocacy.
In his closing remarks, the National Chairman, Mr. Nwokocha Chijioke, charged the National Executives and ASAAHN members to remain resolute in the fight against alcohol harm in Nigeria. He emphasized that the real work has just begun, and all hands must be on deck to drive policy changes that will prioritize public health over the economic gains of the alcohol industry.
This media campaign marks a significant milestone in ASAAHN’s mission to create awareness, mobilize support, and advocate for National Alcohol Policy/Control Bill that will protect Nigerians from the dangers of alcohol harm.
Together, we can build a healthier Nigeria!
For further inquiries about ASAAHN, or its initiatives, please contact:
Email: info@asaahn.org/asaahn19@gmail.com
Website: www.asaahn.org
X: @ASAAHN1
Published by:
Editorial Team
ASAAHN Official Publisher.
