By Our Correspondent
A multiple World Health Organisation(WHO) Award winning Nongovernmental Organisation, The Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation, has celebrated Nigeria’s first graduation ceremony for Train of Trainers (ToT) programme on Substance Use Disorder (SUD) for People With Physical Disabilities (PWPD).
The Award winning NGO was honoured by the WHO World No Tobacco Award in 2021, 2022, and 2024 for her excellence
The event was organized by the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club, held in Kaduna and marked the launch of 20 new poems dedicated to SUD treatment and recovery professionals.
Malam Lawal Magaji, Kaduna State Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) Hausa Programme Coordinator, who anchored the ceremony, highlighting the harmful impacts of tobacco companies.
Dr. Omolara Ibrahim from the Kaduna State Bureau for Substance Abuse (KADBUSA) praised the foundation’s efforts.
On his part, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed from NDLEA urged the graduates to use their skills to stay free of drugs.
Speaking also Hajiya Rakiya A. Umar, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board, and Alhaji Rilwan Mohammed Abdullahi, National President of the Association of Physically Challenged People of Nigeria, both expressed support for the initiative and its expansion.
Mrs. Gormwa Gotus, 2024 WHO World No Tobbaco Award Winner, emphasized the training’s accessibility for all PWPDs.
Margaret Kwa’ada Julius, the foundation’s CEO, and Vanessa Adeshola Julius, President of the Tobacco Substance Abstinence Club, launched the poems, reinforcing the foundation’s inclusive approach.
Insp. Gambo Kuje of KADVIS encouraged the graduates to report any drug-related activities to relevant authorities.
Krestnews reports that the ceremony featured presentation of certificates and jackets to 16 graduants, who showcased their knowledge on the effects of drug abuse.
Krestnews reports that a number of key dignitaries attended the occasion and they include Mrs. Hajara Silas Bala, Mrs. Esther Yohanna, Hajiya Zainab Tanko, Mai Anguwa Aminu Ibrahim, and Mr. Nentawe Gomiyar.
The event which underscores the foundation’s commitment to a drug-free society, particularly for individuals with physical disabilities.
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