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The National Authority for the Campaign Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa has been recognized with the Outstanding Global Personality in Drug and Substance Abuse Prevention award.

The accolade was presented during the ongoing African Youths Initiative on Crime Prevention (AYICRIP) summit in Abuja, Nigeria.

The award celebrates Dr Omerikwa’s exceptional contribution and unwavering commitment to the global fight against substance abuse among youth.

According to the summit, Dr Omerikwa’s leadership in promoting youth development, empowerment, and innovation has made a significant impact across Africa, inspiring young people to lead healthier, drug-free lives.

Speaking at the event, Dr Omerikwa dedicated the award to the youth of Africa, emphasizing the critical role they play in shaping a drug-free future.

“This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of NACADA and our partners in empowering young people to resist the lure of drugs and embrace their potential. Together, we can turn the tide on substance abuse,” he stated.

Crime prevention

The AYICRIP summit has brought together stakeholders from across Africa to address crime prevention, substance abuse, and youth empowerment.

Dr Omerikwa’s leadership in innovative programs, such as NACADA’s targeted youth campaigns and rehabilitation initiatives, was lauded as a model for other nations.

In his remarks, AYICRIP organizers commended Dr Omerikwa’s visionary approach and for setting a high standard in tackling substance abuse through preventive strategies, capacity building, and community-driven solutions.

As the summit continues, Dr Omerikwa’s recognition reinforces the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing substance abuse, ensuring a brighter, drug-free future for Africa’s youth.

Recently, Nacada launched a nationwide crackdown to close down bars and other liquor dispensing outlets and the removal of billboards promoting alcoholic drinks located near learning institutions.

Dr Omerikwa said the crackdown would affect bars and liquor dispensing establishments located less than 300 meters from educational institutions or areas catering to individuals below 18 years.

The authority has decried the increased promotion of alcoholic drinks and alcohol use through billboards erected near learning institutions across the country which is a blatant breach of the laws.

Legal requirements

“The crackdown will be executed in collaboration with relevant National and County Government agencies and seeks to ensure strict compliance with legal requirements about the positioning of such outlets,” he said.

According to Nacada, the presence of the billboards has undermined their efforts against the vice by normalizing the consumption of alcohol and portraying it as an appealing and glamorous choice.

At the same time, the CEO called on advertising agencies and businesses to exercise social responsibility. Omerikwa said the initiative is anchored in the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010 and the Alcoholic Drinks Promotion Regulations.