The Chairperson of the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), Theresa Moses, has called on journalists and media practitioners to embrace promoting accurate, ethical, and prevention-focused reporting on drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Moses made the call while delivering her welcome address at the Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme organized by NOMA, held at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, on Thursday, 25th June, 2026.
NOMA is a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists committed to promoting ethical journalism, media development, and impactful public advocacy across Nigeria.
In collaboration with the International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP Nigeria), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, commemorated the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
With the theme: “Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist’s Role in Prevention and Advocacy,” Moses described the gathering as more than a commemorative activity, but a collective call to action against one of the most pressing public health and social challenges facing Nigeria.
According to her, drug abuse and illicit trafficking have continued to pose serious threats to families, communities, educational institutions, and the future of countless young Nigerians.
“Today’s gathering is an opportunity for reflection, learning, collaboration, and renewed commitment to addressing one of the most pressing social and public health challenges facing our nation and the world,” she said.
She observed that the impact of substance abuse extends far beyond individual users, affecting public health, security, education, productivity, family stability, and national development.
Moses emphasized that while governments, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, parents, educators, religious institutions, and civil society groups all have important roles to play, the media occupies a uniquely influential position in shaping public perception and driving behavioural change.
“As journalists and media practitioners, we are not merely watchdogs of society. We are storytellers, agenda-setters, educators, and advocates. The stories we tell, the language we use, the facts we verify, and the issues we prioritize shape public understanding and influence behaviour,” she stated.
The NOMA Chairperson explained that the theme of the programme was carefully selected to highlight the strategic role of journalism in advancing prevention efforts and promoting advocacy against substance abuse.
She noted that responsible reporting can contribute significantly to reducing drug abuse by raising awareness, educating communities, amplifying expert opinions, promoting evidence-based solutions, and reducing stigma associated with treatment and recovery.
Conversely, she warned that sensational reporting, misinformation, and the glorification of substance use can undermine public health interventions and create harmful social narratives.
“Responsible journalism requires accuracy, balance, ethical considerations, and evidence-based reporting, particularly when covering issues related to substance abuse and mental health,” she said.
Moses expressed appreciation to the distinguished speakers and stakeholders who participated in the programme, describing their contributions as essential to advancing public understanding of drug prevention and advocacy.
Specifically, she acknowledged Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye, Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, a keynote speaker, for his leadership in mental health advocacy and treatment.
She also commended Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo, President of ISSUP Nigeria, for her dedication to promoting evidence-based substance use prevention and treatment initiatives, as well as Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, for strengthening national awareness and enforcement efforts against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Other speakers recognized included Prince Joseph Idiong, Director General of the Association of Nigerian Exporters; the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, who were represented at the conference.
Others were the Father of the Day, Chief Dele Momodu, Chairman of Ovation Media Group, and to the programme’s partners, including ISSUP Nigeria, the NDLEA, and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Polaris Bank, Gfud and Buka, for their collaboration in making the event possible.
The NOMA Chairperson equally acknowledged the contributions of Polaris Bank, whose generous support through the donation of branded educational and utility items—including cable chargers, water bottles, umbrellas, piggy banks, and mathematical sets—added immense value to the programme.
Also appreciate Access Bank (Gfud & Buka), Coca-Cola, the Lagos State Government, LASKADA, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State sector command, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Command, LAW FM 103.9, Jordan FM, Melody FM, Ovation Media Group, and News Central for their invaluable sponsorship, partnership, and media support.
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