Uthman Akinola
The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Neuropsychiatric Hospital (NPH) Aro, Abeokuta, has held the fourth edition of the annual Dr. Taiwo Adamson Debate, focusing on mental health, wellness, and substance use.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the event, organised to honour the hospital’s former Provost, Dr. Taiwo Adamson, was themed, “Golden Hour for Drug Abuse Prevention Programmes: Primary or Secondary Education?”
The debate, endowed by Dr. Adamson and hosted by the current Provost/Medical Director of NPH Aro, Dr. Paul Agboola, brought together stakeholders, students, and mental health advocates to address the growing menace of drug abuse among Nigerian youth.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Taiwo Adamson, an addiction psychiatrist and the Chief Medical Director of Ishwot Consulting Hospital, emphasized the importance of early prevention of drug abuse.
She called on parents and guardians to prioritize educating children about the dangers of substance use from their formative years.
“Prevention is the way forward. We need to prevent children from falling into drug abuse rather than managing its consequences,” Dr. Adamson said.
“The adverse effects of addiction on the mental health of our future leaders cannot be overstated.”
In his welcome address, Dr. Paul Agboola stressed the significance of mental health in fostering a productive society.
He warned that substance abuse has crippled numerous economic activities and urged parents to safeguard their children against harmful practices.
“People are normal as long as they are mentally healthy,” Dr. Agboola said.
“Mental health awareness and prevention of drug abuse are crucial steps to ensuring a healthy and vibrant society.”
Dr. Agboola also commended the ARD for organizing the debate, describing it as a strategic move to educate young minds on the dangers of drug abuse.
Mrs. Oladimi Taiwo, the Head of Department in the hospital, called for the initiative to be extended to more schools across Abeokuta.
She noted that raising awareness among secondary school students was a vital step in curbing the rising trend of drug use among teenagers.
“This programme is a necessary enlightenment campaign. Expanding it will have a ripple effect, educating more students and reducing the risk of substance abuse,” she said.
Declaring the debate open, ARD President, Dr. Abdulghafar Kolade, stated that the debate was a tribute to Dr. Adamson for her contributions to repositioning the hospital during her tenure as Provost.
“This debate is not just an educational event but also a campaign against drug abuse and a call for a cleaner, healthier society,” Dr. Kolade noted.
The debate featured students from various secondary schools in Abeokuta, with St. Peter’s College, Olomore, emerging as the winner.
The school received a gift from Dr. Adamson in recognition of their outstanding performance, while other participants were also rewarded.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the event is one of several initiatives aimed at combating drug abuse in Nigeria.
It highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts in addressing the menace through education, early intervention, and sustained awareness campaigns.
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