As the current National Chairperson of ADMAP, could you reflect on your journey so far? What were your initial goals when you took on this role?
My journey as ADMAP National Coordinator has been both enlightening and exciting. My initial goal was to strengthen ADMAP’s structure across all chapters, ensuring efficiency through a well-defined organizational framework. I also prioritized reviving ADMAP’s online presence, which we are still working on and expanding partnerships with agencies like NDLEA and NAFDAC to enhance our impact. This is being carried out by the Local chapter coordinators. Also, we at the National body are looking to reach out to them for an educative webinar.
To drive awareness, I plan to initiate A National School Outreach, mobilizing chapters to educate students on drug abuse. This will be happening around June. Additionally, I planned collaborations with the PANS Public Health Team for antimicrobial resistance campaigns and a Mental Health Awareness Month program with The Pharmental Initiative.
Overall, my focus has been on building a structured, impactful, and sustainable movement against drug misuse, and I remain committed to ensuring ADMAP’s continued growth and influence.
What key initiatives and programs has ADMAP implemented under your leadership over the past few months?
Under my leadership so far, ADMAP has implemented several impactful initiatives:
1. We’ve established a unified working structure across all ADMAP chapters, including teams for coordination, research, planning/logistics, medical/speakers, media/publicity, and graphic design.
2. We have been actively working to build partnerships by joining others in their efforts to eradicate drug abuse in Nigeria. An example is when ADMAP representatives were mobilized to join WAPCP, ALPs and CPAN’s walk against drug abuse and addiction.
3. We have successfully Launched the first-ever ADMAP video contest to engage students in creative drug awareness advocacy.
4. We have successfully hosted the first of many planned national webinars on substance misuse and abuse, fostering knowledge-sharing and awareness. We had notable speakers from The World Federation Against Drug(WFAD) as well as a past ADMAP Chairperson, Pharmacist Adebayo Akintade.
What would you consider to be some of the most significant achievements of ADMAP during your tenure? Can you provide specific examples or data to illustrate their impact?
I would say my most significant achievement is yet to be launched. However, so far, the most impactful milestone has been the structuring of ADMAP chapters nationwide. By implementing a standardized working framework—we have significantly improved efficiency, communication, and project execution across all chapters. This structure not only enhances our immediate operations but also ensures the sustainability and consistency of ADMAP’s fight against drug abuse, laying a solid foundation for future initiatives.
Additionally, we held a national webinar on strategic drug abuse advocacy. Many overlook the fact that effective drug abuse prevention goes beyond rallies—it requires a thoughtful, empathetic, and well-planned approach, especially when addressing issues of dependence and addiction. This webinar provided essential guidance on how to engage communities meaningfully, ensuring that our advocacy efforts are impactful, informed, and rooted in compassion.
Another major initiative was the launch of the first-ever ADMAP Online Video Contest, designed to encourage creative advocacy against drug abuse. This contest has provided a platform for students to use storytelling, visuals, and social media to spread awareness in a relatable and engaging way. We are leveraging on digital platforms to expand our reach, particularly among young people, and reinforcing the importance of continuous, innovative approaches to combating substance abuse.
What lessons have you learned from the implementation of ADMAP initiatives across different PANS chapters? What has worked well, and what challenges have you encountered?
Hmmm...As I said earlier, it’s been enlightening. I think one of the things I encountered when I was appointed was the fact that the various schools under PANS National operate with very different calendars. When some are just resuming, some are writing exams, while that is going on, some are still on breaks at home. Making it quite difficult to plan an event or initiative for all schools to actively participate in.
As for what has worked well
Empowering chapter leaders with autonomy while providing guidance has also encouraged innovative local initiatives. Furthermore, leveraging social media for digital advocacy has expanded our reach beyond physical event. Our webinar was a success, although some schools weren’t able to participate because of the calendar issue I talked about earlier. The solve this, we shared the recording and slides to every interested persons. Giving the coordinators a range of days to pick from to hold their events rather than picking a fixed day for them to all hold their event is also an effective way to execute programs, because it to an extent solves the hindrance of varied schedule across ADMAP Chapters.
Despite these successes, challenges persist. Limited funding remains a major hurdle, with many chapters struggling to secure sponsorships for projects. I think another challenge would be individual leadership commitment. Varied participation of leaders in ADMAP activities leads to inconsistencies across chapters.
To address the financial constraints, the national body has invested #100,000 to organizing a video contest for ADMAP Chapter with the goal that the funds can be poured back into the advocacy against drug abuse.
What are the current priority areas for ADMAP under your continued coordination? Are there any emerging trends in drug misuse and abuse among students that you are currently focusing on?
In my tenure, ADMAP is prioritizing prevention-focused strategies to combat drug misuse among students. Our key areas include expanding mental health and drug awareness programs, particularly through our Mental Health Summit (the whole month of May is dedicated to this) and school outreaches. We are strengthening secondary school interventions to educate teenagers early, equipping them with the knowledge to resist peer pressure. Digital advocacy remains a major focus because I really believe in the effectiveness of social media in spreading information and educating people.
Another priority of mine is building ADMAP members to not only go around with flyers and placards but know the how to engage with people on discussions relating to drug abuse.
For them to be well informed on the trends on this topic.
Emerging trends in student drug misuse include the misuse of prescription opioids and , the rise of synthetic substances like Colorado, and the growing dependence on vaping and nicotine products, that are advertised as harmless. They use it as a way to “Catch fun”. Many students also turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for academic stress and mental health challenges, some due to peer pressure. Some students even turn to drugs because of curiosity. Weird right! That’s to show that a lot of work is still needed. To address these issues, ADMAP is focusing on prevention through education, awareness, and early intervention. By providing students with factual information, we aim to create a drug-free environment where students can thrive.
How is ADMAP currently supporting and engaging with the local ADMAP coordinators in various PANS chapters? What mechanisms are in place for communication and collaboration?
ADMAP is actively supporting and engaging with local coordinators across PANS chapters through structured communication, capacity building, and collaborative initiatives. We meet once every month virtually to create a platform for coordinators to share progress, challenges, and ideas. We have a joint Whatsapp group for all ADMAP Coordinators and Asst. Coordinators in local chapters to ensure coordination and prompt dissemination of information.
For accountability and tracking impact, we have established a reporting structure requiring coordinators to upload monthly updates on their activities to a google drive folder. Through these, the national body of ADMAP maintains strong engagement with local coordinators, to help bring about a united and efficient movement against drug misuse and abuse.
What ongoing projects or campaigns are currently underway by ADMAP at the national level?
Hmmm….Currently, we are preparing to launch our #ShareYourDrugStory Online Campaign, launching in April. This campaign will create a platform for individuals to share their experiences with drug misuse, recovery, or prevention, fostering awareness and reducing stigma. It’s an anonymous interview setting to relate with people that have stories to share about themselves or someone they know. They are interviewed by our representative and the story is published anonymously (with the permission of the individual).
Another major project is the May Mental Health Summit, which aims to educate health students on the intersection between mental health and substance abuse. This summit will feature expert discussions, student-led panels, and practical strategies for mental wellness. This is an event in collaboration with PANS Public Health Team and The Pharmental Initiative.
In June, ADMAP will observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, a global event dedicated to raising awareness and reinforcing drug prevention efforts. This initiative will be a two pronged approach to raise awareness on drug abuse and promote prevention of drug abuse. A rally and a visit to a secondary school.
What collaborations or partnerships has ADMAP established with other organizations or institutions during your tenure? How have these collaborations benefited the program?
During my tenure as ADMAP National Chairman, we have established collaborations with bodies like PANS Public Health Committee, PANS Pharmacy Education and Research Hub Committee. These partnerships have expanded our reach, improved the quality of our initiatives, and ensured thorough execution of our Plans.
I am currently looking at partnering with NAFDAC, NDLEA, ICHAD and Vgada. However, the local chapters are very well encouraged to partner with bodies with aligning goals to carry out whatever program they have planned or assigned to them by the National body.
How are you working to ensure the long-term sustainability and continuity of ADMAP's efforts beyond your current term?
To guarantee the continuity of ADMAP’s impact beyond my tenure, I am focusing on structural strengthening, and strategic partnerships. One key approach is capacity building for chapter coordinators, ensuring they receive the necessary training and mentorship to sustain initiatives at their respective institutions. The next ADMAP National Chairperson would be someone who has served as a coordinator or Asst. coordinator to ensure continuity, it’s only wise to bring every leader in ADMAP onboard with everything I have planned.
I am also prioritizing the establishment of long-term collaborations with external organizations, like other pharmacy groups, public health bodies, NGOs, and government agencies, to secure ongoing support for ADMAP programs.
I aim to leave behind a framework that ensures ADMAP’s continued growth, adaptability, and relevance in the fight against drug misuse and abuse through these.
Are there any new strategies or innovative approaches you are considering implementing to further enhance ADMAP's impact?
Well, I am considering implementing an ADMAP Training Program on Combating Drug Abuse and Addiction, an online-based training initiative aimed at equipping students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in drug prevention, advocacy, and intervention. This program would serve as a structured learning platform where participants engage with expert tutors from partner organizations, including professionals in public health, drug enforcement, and mental health.
The bootcamp would focus on key areas such as drug abuse trends, prevention strategies, policy advocacy, and leadership in community engagement. By integrating interactive sessions, case studies, and research-driven discussions, participants would be empowered to develop actionable solutions within their institutions and communities. The goal is to create a network of trained student advocates who can sustain ADMAP’s impact beyond traditional awareness programs.
If done well, this initiative could strengthen ADMAP’s role in drug prevention by fostering collaborations with relevant stakeholders and ensuring a continuous cycle of education and advocacy. I am still exploring the best approach to structure the program and secure partnerships for effective execution.
How do you plan to leverage the upcoming National Conference to further promote ADMAP's goals and engage more students in its activities?
I am still unsure if I’ll be able to make it to the Symposium, but my Vice will be attending. She will be on the look out for possible partners that would be interested in promoting our cause.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced as the National Chairperson of ADMAP, and how have you worked to overcome them?
Alright, let’s see. Biggest challenges. One of the biggest challenges has been coordinating multiple ADMAP chapters across different institutions. Ensuring that all chapters remain active, aligned with the national vision, and effectively executing projects requires constant communication and structured guidance. To address this, I have prioritized regular engagement with chapter coordinators, provided clear project frameworks, and established platforms for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Engaging health students in ADMAP activities while they juggle demanding academic schedules can be hard. I can’t advise students to leave academics, seeing as before they’re first students before ADMAP members. To deal with that, I have given the Coordinators a say on the right dates to hold their events(days when they’re not having tests or exams). And on the National end, we hold webinars that try as much as possible to accommodate everyone’s school calendar.
How has your understanding of the role of pharmacy students in combating this issue evolved during your time as coordinator?
My time as ADMAP National Chairperson has reinforced my view of pharmacy students as key change agents in the fight against drug abuse. Beyond awareness; we are frontline advocates, future policy influencers, and community mobilizers in the fight against substance abuse.
Pharmacy students possess a unique advantage due to their deep understanding of pharmacology and drug interactions. This knowledge allows us to correct misinformation, provide guidance on safe medication use, and actively engage with communities where drug misuse is prevalent. Over time, I have also recognized the importance of interprofessional collaboration. Combating drug abuse is not just a pharmacy-driven effort; it requires working alongside medical students, psychologists, public health experts, and policymakers to create holistic solutions.
Pharmacy students must not only educate the public but also hold institutions accountable. By engaging with regulatory bodies, contributing to drug policies, and advocating for stricter regulations on drug distribution, we can help shape policies that prevent abuse at a systemic level.
How has your experience as the ADMAP National Coordinator shaped your personal and professional development?
My experience as the ADMAP National Chairperson has been a great journey one that has significantly contributed to my personal and professional development. On a personal level, leading a nationwide initiative has strengthened my leadership, resilience, and adaptability. I have learned to navigate challenges like coordinating multiple chapters, engaging diverse stakeholders, all while balancing my academic responsibilities. It has also worked to enhance my problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, and capacity to inspire and motivate a team toward a common goal.
Professionally, this role has deepened my understanding of public health, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Immediately I took up the role, I had to do extensive research on drug abuse advocacy to see what is currently feasible at our level and to help me better plan for my tenure. It has also reinforced my passion for health advocacy and social impact, positioning me as a proactive change agent in the healthcare sector. Also, working with students from different backgrounds and geographical region has improved my networking and communication skills, which I believe are crucial for my future career in pharmacy and public health.
Most importantly, this experience so far has given me a greater sense of purpose. Seeing the impact of our initiatives—whether through testimonies from students or successful outreach programs—has reinforced my commitment to making a difference beyond the classroom. It has also instilled in me a long-term vision for leadership and service, motivating me to continue driving change in the healthcare space.
In many ways, serving as ADMAP National Chairman is not only preparing me for future leadership roles but has also shaping my identity as a strategic thinker, advocate, and problem-solver, committed to using my skills to improve lives and drive meaningful impact in healthcare.
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