MTN FOUNDATION, NDLEA, UNVEIL 24/7 HELPLINE IN ANTI-DRUG ABUSE CAMPAIGN
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By Shodayo Sunmisola Michael
The MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, has introduced a round-the-clock psychosocial support helpline, 08010203040, to link Nigerians with qualified psychologists for complimentary counselling in various local languages.
This initiative was launched in Kaduna on Monday during a workshop for stakeholders focused on teacher training. It was revealed that the helpline serves as a vital component of the MTN Foundation’s broader Anti-Substance Abuse Programme, which aims to train 1,440 teachers and raise awareness among 86,400 public secondary school students across 12 states.
During the inauguration in Kaduna, MTN Foundation representative Abubakar Zubairu stated that the programme will also encompass quiz competitions, community outreach initiatives with the National Youth Service Corps, and a three-day training session for 60 secondary school educators in Kaduna and Kwara.
““Our stakeholder convenings in Lagos and Abuja further strengthened our multi-sectoral partnerships in this fight,,” Zubairu remarked.
“The teachers’ training in Kaduna and Kwara will pave the way for a digital framework to expand the impact. The need to scale this subject matter is pertinent, and we trust all stakeholders will support this noble cause as we work towards a drug-free nation.”
The MTN Foundation emphasized that success would be evaluated not solely by the number of individuals trained but also by the long-term changes in behaviors and attitudes among youth.
It is noteworthy that PUNCH Online reported on September 10 that the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, in partnership with the Kwara State Government and the MTN Foundation, trained 30 secondary school educators in Ilorin under the “Unplugged Teachers Training” programme.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented at the event, announced intentions to expand the training to 1,440 teachers, ultimately reaching approximately 86,400 students throughout the state.
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The two-day workshop equipped educators with strategies including decision-making, social skills enhancement, and resilience-building, aimed at preventing drug use and supporting students already facing addiction.
Trainers emphasized the role of educators as counselors, while participants characterized the training as both impactful and timely in tackling drug-related social and security concerns.
With its comprehensive approach to teacher training, student awareness, community engagement, and psychosocial support, the MTN Foundation’s 2025 campaign aims to fortify schools and communities while empowering young Nigerians to resist the perils of substance abuse.
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