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Nigeria Moves to Introduce Drug Testing in Universities, Add Substance Education to School Curriculum

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In a landmark policy shift aimed at curbing substance abuse among Nigeria’s youth, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Federal Ministry of Education have agreed to embed comprehensive drug education into school curricula and initiate mandatory drug testing for tertiary institution students.

This decision was reached following a high-level meeting between NDLEA Chairman and CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), and the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, in Abuja on Wednesday.

“The purpose of this visit is to seek collaboration with this esteemed ministry in our collective efforts towards drug control in Nigeria,” said Marwa. “There are millions of our children under the supervision of this ministry. We are actually fighting for the souls of our children.”

Drug Abuse Threatens National Security and Youth Potential — Marwa

Marwa noted that drug abuse not only hampers the intellectual and social growth of young people but also fuels insecurity across the country.

“Drug use is exacerbating criminal activities — Boko Haram, terrorism, banditry. Without drugs, they wouldn’t be able to do what they are doing,” he stated. “Through law enforcement action, we have dealt mortal blows to drug cartels. Supported by President Bola Tinubu, we have arrested 40,887 criminal elements, secured 8,682 convictions, and seized 5,507 metric tons of illicit drugs.”

The NDLEA boss also revealed that the agency has intercepted over one billion tramadol pills — worth more than ₦1 trillion — between January 2024 and July 2025.

President Tinubu, according to Marwa, has greenlit the construction of seven new rehabilitation centres and one model facility in each geo-political zone, to bolster nationwide recovery efforts.

Three-Pronged Proposal for Educational Institutions

Marwa proposed three key interventions:

1. Review the existing drug education curriculum in secondary schools to reflect modern realities and substances.

2. Introduce stand-alone drug prevention programmes — including lectures, competitions, and parent-involved activities.

3. Institutionalise drug integrity testing in universities for:

New students,

Returning students,

Random selection.

“This policy will encourage students to avoid drugs, knowing there are consequences. And the consequences do not necessarily mean rustication,” Marwa added.

Education Minister Endorses Full Collaboration

Dr. Alausa, visibly moved by Marwa’s presentation, expressed strong support for NDLEA’s mission.

“When youths get into drugs, they won’t go to school, or when they do, they are not getting functional education. Their ability to make informed decisions later in life becomes significantly reduced,” the Minister said. “We must tackle this menace, and tackle it very quickly.”

He also praised Marwa’s decades-long dedication to public service, remarking:

“Since I knew him 30 years ago, he’s still serving this country. You could see the passion in how he laid out the problem and what he wanted us to do.”

New Unit to Combat Drug Abuse in Schools

Alausa pledged full cooperation by initiating several steps immediately, including:

Formation of an inter-ministerial technical working group with NDLEA,

Creation of a Substance Use Prevention Unit within the ministry,

Review of the secondary school curriculum to include drug education,

Expansion of awareness to primary schools.

“We will also design ongoing stand-alone programmes and roll them out in schools,” Alausa affirmed. “As for the drug test policy in tertiary institutions — we will do it. We don’t have a choice.”

He further promised to engage the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and TETFUND to support the NDLEA Academy in Jos.

Action Already Underway

Immediately following the meeting, Mr. Abel Oluwamuyiwa Enitan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, confirmed the establishment of the new Substance Use Prevention Unit, signaling swift implementation of the resolutions.

Conclusion

This development marks a significant stride in Nigeria’s war on drugs, particularly among the youth. With both the NDLEA and the Ministry of Education aligned on strategy and execution, experts say the initiative could potentially reshape the educational and social landscape by addressing substance abuse from its root.

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Naija Feminists Media Champions Gender Equality Through Digital Advocacy and Transformative Journalism

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In a bold response to the entrenched gender inequality in Nigeria’s mainstream media and society, Naija Feminists Media (NFM) has emerged as a driving force for feminist advocacy, using digital platforms, community-driven journalism, and policy research to create change.

Founded in August 2024, NFM is a media and advocacy organisation dedicated to challenging harmful stereotypes, gender disinformation, and the erasure of women’s voices across Nigeria. The organisation’s mission is clear: to leverage journalism, technology, and education to promote justice and equity for Nigerian women and girls.

“Women in Nigeria are consistently erased, misrepresented, or silenced in mainstream media,” the organisation stated. “Gender disinformation, harmful stereotypes, and the absence of feminist reporting continue to fuel stigma, injustice, and policy neglect.”

Saving Lives Through Storytelling: N3 Million Raised for GBV Survivor

One of NFM’s most powerful achievements came after the organisation reported the harrowing case of Mercy Vangervihi, a 14-year-old girl who was raped while asleep in her home in Ebonyi State. Mercy sustained a critical acute epidural hematoma and urgently needed N2.5 million for surgery.

After NFM member Egbo Chisom shared Mercy’s story, the public response was swift and compassionate. Over N3 million was raised within 24 hours, not only covering the medical bills but also spotlighting the power of media advocacy to drive immediate social impact.

“NFM’s reporting mobilised Nigerians to fund Mercy’s treatment, saving her life,” said Chisom. “It reminded us that digital storytelling is not just about awareness, it’s about action.”

Countering Cyberbullying: Digital Justice for Women Advocates

The organisation has also stepped up to protect women from online harassment. On January 31, 2025, a disturbing incident occurred when a male Facebook user falsely claimed that women’s rights activist Priscilla Ayodele had died in a ritual killing. The doctored “RIP” post was a form of retaliation after Priscilla challenged the user’s sexist remarks.

NFM quickly conducted a fact-check investigation, contacted the offender, and ensured the post was removed from Facebook. The incident underscored the growing threat of digital violence against women and the importance of feminist watchdogs online.

“Priscilla’s experience revealed how digital spaces are weaponised against women,” the organisation noted. “NFM’s fact-checking protected her and sent a wider message about online safety.”

Investing in Women’s Education: Keeping Students in School

Naija Feminists Media is also tackling economic inequality through support for women’s education. In one notable instance, the organisation raised over N486,275 to prevent a first-class Mass Communication student at Lead City University from dropping out due to financial hardship.

This initiative reflects NFM’s commitment to creating tangible pathways for women’s success, particularly in sectors where their voices are underrepresented.

Sparking National Conversations: Advocacy Through X Spaces

NFM has made digital platforms a battleground for awareness and reform. In the last year, the organisation hosted more than ten X Spaces real-time Twitter discussions each averaging over 100 listeners. These sessions featured women professionals, activists, and experts engaging the public on issues such as rape culture, menstrual stigma, digital safety, female genital mutilation (FGM), and women in leadership.

“These conversations deepen public understanding and spark urgent dialogue,” said an NFM spokesperson. “They are not just trends, they are teaching moments.”

Shaping Policy Through Research

Beyond advocacy and reporting, Naija Feminists Media has also contributed to policy reform by publishing six policy briefs within the last few months. These documents outline evidence-based recommendations for lawmakers and policymakers, offering practical steps to protect and empower Nigerian women and girls.

“Our policy briefs are rooted in research and community insight. They’re meant to guide real change—not just in laws, but in attitudes,” the organisation emphasised.

A New Era of Feminist Media in Nigeria

In just one year, Naija Feminists Media has redefined what it means to be a feminist media organisation in Nigeria. Its impact cuts across public health, education, digital rights, and policy influence, an ambitious and deeply necessary response to the systemic challenges Nigerian women face daily.

As the group continues to amplify marginalised voices, protect vulnerable individuals, and hold systems accountable, NFM stands as a powerful example of how journalism and technology can be wielded to rewrite the narrative for Nigerian women.

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Birthday Tribute: Dr. Nonye Soludo Celebrated for Impactful Leadership and Humanitarian Legacy

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As the First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, marked her birthday on Wednesday, July 31, 2025, she was celebrated not only for her personal milestones but for her tireless commitment to public service, community wellness, and grassroots development in the state.

Widely referred to as “Mama Anambra” by residents, Dr. Soludo’s influence extends far beyond the ceremonial role of a governor’s wife. According to Christian Aburime, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, “she is an endearing personality, a selfless exemplar, and a graceful woman who embodies the ideals of simplicity, decency, compassion, and stewardship.”

From Garden to Governance: A Lifestyle of Impact

Through her flagship initiative, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, the First Lady has championed key causes including maternal and child health, food security, environmental cleanliness, and nutrition. The programme encourages households to embrace self-sustenance by cultivating home gardens.

Sharing a recent experience from her vegetable garden at The Light House residence in Awka, Dr. Soludo noted, “There is always a natural feeling of fulfilment when you harvest from your garden.” She used the occasion to urge families across Anambra to “cultivate their gardens,” adding that “you are what you eat.”

Her advocacy blends personal lifestyle with public enlightenment, striking a unique chord with Anambra’s grassroots communities.

Leading Environmental Awareness

Beyond health and nutrition, the First Lady has used her platform to promote environmental consciousness. She consistently calls for joint responsibility in preserving the environment.

“Every action we take towards our environment will either come back green or haunt us,” she said during one of her public engagements, reminding citizens that everyday choices have lasting ecological impacts.

Her environmental work has inspired campaigns on hygiene, waste management, and local clean-up drives in both urban and rural communities across the state.

Recognised for Service: First Lady of the Year Award

In recognition of her enduring humanitarian impact, Dr. Soludo has been named First Lady of the Year (Healthcare and Child Support) at the 2025 Nigerian Humanitarian Awards. The award will be presented on Friday, August 22, at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja.

The award honours her contributions to maternal care, healthy living advocacy, and the empowerment of underserved communities.

Christian Aburime stated, “She thrives in her modesty, choosing to immerse herself in meaningful initiatives that uplift the lives of people.”

Support System for Solution Governance

Dr. Nonye Soludo has consistently aligned her efforts with her husband’s Solution Governance Agenda, providing a human-centred complement to the state’s socio-economic reforms. Her work enhances public trust in governance by addressing the everyday needs of families.

“She proves that good governance goes beyond policies to encompass environments where families can thrive, children grow up healthy, and communities flourish,” Aburime noted.

Walking With the People, Not Above Them

Dr. Soludo’s humility and grassroots rapport continue to distinguish her among Nigeria’s First Ladies. Rather than remain cloistered in political exclusivity, she has walked hand-in-hand with citizens—from rural farmers to school children—earning admiration and affection across the state.

She is regarded by many not just as a First Lady, but as “a sister, a mother, and a friend who genuinely cares about everyone’s well-being.”

A New Year of Service Ahead

As the birthday messages pour in, so does the hope that Dr. Nonye Soludo’s legacy of compassion and service will continue to blossom. Supporters describe her as a “golden heart” whose actions have planted seeds of hope, cultivated grassroots progress, and harvested goodwill across Anambra.

Her commitment to living and leading by example remains unwavering.

“May this new year of her life bring even more opportunities to plant seeds of hope, cultivate dreams, and harvest the fruits of her ceaseless dedication,” a community leader said in tribute.

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Fearless Freedom Launches Global Advocacy to Combat Economic Inequality and Amplify Marginalized Voices

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A new global movement aimed at dismantling economic inequality and empowering underrepresented communities has officially taken flight. Fearless Freedom, launched today, August 2, 2025, is redefining the global conversation on equity, inclusion, and financial justice.

Backed by the visionary founder of the Fearless Fund, the first U.S. venture capital fund established by women of color for women of color. This new initiative continues a legacy of inclusive disruption in traditionally exclusive financial spaces.

Fearless Freedom steps onto the global stage nearly a year after surviving a pivotal legal challenge that sought to stifle its mission. A federal lawsuit filed against the organization on August 2, 2023, was permanently dismissed on September 11, 2024. The case, which had sparked widespread debate around diversity-focused funding, only served to galvanize support for the movement.

“Fearless Freedom is our global declaration, a refusal to be silenced, erased, or sidelined,“ declared Her Majesty Queen Wa Arian Simone, CEO of Fearless Fund and the voice behind the new advocacy initiative.

“We’re not just funding change anymore, we’re amplifying the voices that have always driven it. This initiative is about power, presence, and rewriting the rules of who gets seen, supported, and heard.”

In reclaiming August 2 as a symbolic date of resilience and global visibility, Queen Arian Simone added:

“August 2nd was once about legal resistance. From now on, it marks something else: a day of fearless expression and global visibility.”

What Is Fearless Freedom?

Described as more than just an advocacy platform, Fearless Freedom is positioning itself as a global cultural movement. Through storytelling, policy conversations, and creative programming, it aims to:

Expose structural inequalities in finance and entrepreneurship

Uplift the lived experiences of underrepresented communities

Drive systemic policy reform in favor of economic equity

Empower voices globally through multimedia content, social platforms, and cultural initiatives

From digital storytelling to physical installations and global policy forums, Fearless Freedom invites people everywhere to reflect, learn, and speak out against inequality.

Why It Matters

The launch is especially timely as governments and institutions globally grapple with widening economic gaps and systemic exclusion. For marginalized groups particularly women of color—access to capital, mentorship, and mainstream visibility remains scarce.

Fearless Freedom confronts that void by building both awareness and practical avenues for influence, advocacy, and systemic change.

Get Involved

The organization has invited supporters and change-seekers worldwide to follow its journey and contribute to the movement.

Join the mailing list: linktr.ee/fearlessfreedommedia

Follow on social media: @fearlessfreedommedia on Instagram and TikTok

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