The Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA) has announced a capacity-building programme for media professionals to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The initiative is being organised in partnership with the International Society of Substance Use Prevention Professionals (ISSUP) Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba.
Scheduled for June 25, 2026, the one-day conference would take place at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos.
The programme is themed, “Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist’s Role in Prevention and Advocacy.”
Organisers said the training aims to strengthen journalists’ capacity to report drug-related issues accurately, ethically, and professionally.
Participants would include editors, publishers, broadcasters, bloggers, and other digital media practitioners from across the country.
The training would focus on substance abuse, mental health, rehabilitation, prevention strategies, and responsible communication practices.
Experts in public health, law enforcement, journalism, and substance use prevention would deliver presentations and lead discussions.
Sessions would also examine fact-based reporting, stigma reduction, advocacy, and effective public awareness campaigns.
According to the organisers, drug abuse remains a major social and public health concern, particularly among Nigerian youths.
They noted that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public attitudes and promoting evidence-based prevention efforts.
NOMA Chairperson, Theresa Moses, said journalists have significant influence in driving positive behavioural change through responsible reporting.
She described the media as a powerful tool for education, advocacy, and social transformation.
Moses stressed the need for balanced and evidence-driven reporting that highlights prevention, treatment, and recovery opportunities.
The event is expected to attract media executives, government officials, healthcare professionals, civil society groups, researchers, students, and youth advocates.
Organisers said the programme supports global efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking through stronger public awareness and collaboration.
