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Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) Wraps Up First Phase In Kano State

Health experts and partner organisations, led by MTN Nigeria, have concluded the pilot phase of the multi-stakeholder intervention in the fight against substance abuse among youth in Nigeria.
After seven months of multiple hard-hitting on-ground activities in Abuja, Lagos, Imo, Rivers, and Bauchi states, the first phase of the widely successful multi-stakeholder Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) ended in Kano State on Friday, 26th July 2019.
The programme, which is geared at combating the increasing rate of first-time drug-use among young Nigerians, was built on a multi-sectoral approach that amasses a network of stakeholder organisations spanning non-profit organisations, regulatory agencies, professional associations, advocacy champions and individual experts.
Stakeholders include the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA); the Police; Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN); Christians Against Drug Abuse Mission (CADAM); Freedom Foundation, etc.
During a courtesy visit by MTN ASAP team to the Government House in Kano State, Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, Deputy Governor of Kano State commended the effort of the MTN foundation in the fight against substance abuse. “I want to thank MTN foundation, we see all the good works you’ve been doing.
“It is truly commendable especially against substance abuse and wellness of communities with the ‘What Can We Do Together’ initiative.
“The government of Kano is not also sitting back with this menace of substance abuse.
“We are already working towards setting up an agency to look into substance abuse and we will very much like to work with MTN on this important project.
“There is so much we can achieve if we collaborate. We have a huge problem on our hands but I am confident we can defeat this problem especially when corporations become more aware and responsible just like MTN has done”.
Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, gave a glimpse into the programme’s future: “After embarking on this project that has taken us through various nooks and crannies of the country, and listening to the feedback from thousands of young students and volunteers, it has become apparent that our mission has only just begun.
“For the millions of young Nigerians on the verge of the decision on first-time drug-use, we will continue this campaign aimed at dissuading them.
“We are humbled by what we have all been able to achieve with the pilot and are expectant for the millions that will be reached in the subsequent phases.”
Millions of young Nigerians have been inspired by the programme’s multi-faceted approach that has included direct engagement, digital empowerment, stakeholder collaboration and media advocacy.
Following activations in over 125 secondary schools, 16 tertiary institutions, 30 motor parks and markets, influencer workshops, plans are being implemented for an even more targeted second phase. This is expected to continue to affect wide-sweeping changes in various states in Nigeria.
News
SEC Probes Ponzi Scheme Linked to FF Tiffany

The Securities and Exchange Commission has revealed plans to commence investigation into the activities of an entity operating under FF Tiffany, allegedly running a fraudulent investment scheme that has defrauded citizens.
A statement by the SEC on Tuesday in Abuja said preliminary information revealed that the scheme, which promised investors unusually high and unrealistic returns, had resulted in the loss of several billions of naira.
The SEC said it viewed the activity as a threat to investor confidence and the overall integrity of the financial system.
The commission assured the public that it was working closely with law enforcement agencies and other relevant bodies to bring everyone involved in the unlawful operation to justice.
According to SEC, those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the Investment and Securities Act and regulatory provisions.
SEC reiterated its earlier warnings to the general public to desist from engaging in Ponzi or unregistered investment schemes that promised guaranteed or exaggerated returns.
“These schemes are not registered with the SEC and do not offer investor protection under the law.
“The commission is currently investigating 79 schemes and will make a statement on its findings at the conclusion of the investigation,” the SEC said.
The commission encouraged investors to conduct due diligence and verify the registration status of any investment firm or product by visiting the SEC website or contacting the commission directly through official channels.
SEC said it remained committed to its mandate of protecting investors, ensuring fair practices, and maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s capital market.
News
US Launches ‘Window on America’ @ Ogun Tech Hub

The Ogun Tech Hub in Abeokuta, Nigeria received a significant step towards increasing digital access and empowering young people as US Embassy in Nigeria launched the ‘Window on America’ facility.
The newly opened centre will offer free high-speed internet, computer access, and targeted programs to help young Nigerians build essential skills in technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
In a post on X (previously Twitter), the US Embassy described the hub as a modern ICT and resource centre meant to promote digital inclusion and provide youths with skills.
“Hello Abeokuta! We’re thrilled to announce the opening of the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America. This dynamic space offers free high-speed internet, computers, and programs to help young people gain tech, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills,” the Embassy wrote.
The facility was established in collaboration with the Ogun State and GFA Technologies, a software solutions provider for startups and SMEs.
The Embassy said the facility is part of its wider network of 29 American hubs across Nigeria, designed to empower youth and broaden access to global knowledge and opportunities.
Speaking during the launch, Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun urged young people to use the ICT industry for self-sufficiency and competitiveness globally.
He lauded the program as a public-private cooperation that connects Nigerian youngsters with global innovations.
The governor said: “The Ogun Tech Hub serves as a collaborative space for technologists, startups, and social entrepreneurs to develop tech-driven solutions for societal challenges. The partnership is aimed at positioning Ogun State as a leading tech hub in Africa, supporting creative problem-solving and commercial innovation.”
With the ‘Window on America’ program fully operational, Ogun State is well-positioned to boost youth empowerment and digital literacy.
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