The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has warned digital influencers and content creators against promoting alcohol and drug use in any form within their creative work.
In a statement dated Monday, September 23, 2024, NACADA boss Anthony Omerikwa said that the influence of social media has the power to shape or wreck behaviours, among vulnerable groups, especially youth and children hence digital content creators and influencers are responsible for upholding ethical standards.
Omerikwa went on to say that the increased trends in the promotion of the use of drugs and substances have posed a significant threat to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.
“National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has noted with concern the increasing trend where social and digital media influencers, as well as content creators, are posting content that promotes the use of drugs and substances,” Omerikwa said.
“Such content, often directed at young audiences, poses a significant threat to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse while undermining the efforts to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from these harmful influences. Social media platforms and digital content creators are responsible for upholding ethical standards and promoting healthy behaviours among their audiences.”
Consequences of promoting drug use
While quoting the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act under the 2010 Constitution and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act of 1994, the NACADA boss disclosed that promoting drugs and substance use through digital platforms is illegal and punishable by law.
“The Authority reminds the public that promoting drugs and substance use through social media is not only irresponsible but is also a violation of the law,” he disclosed.
“Under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010 (ADCA) and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, 1994, promoting, advertising, or encouraging drug use is illegal and punishable by law.”
NACADA vs influencers
He further urged the influencers to stop using their platforms to promote, normalise or glorify drug abuse.
Additionally, Omerikwa encouraged guardians to monitor closely the content consumed by their children online and report harmful content to the relevant authorities adding that they should also educate their kids about the danger of drug use.
“NACADA implore influencers and content creators against using their platforms to normalize or glorify drug use,” he added.
“NACADA encourages parents and guardians to closely monitor the content their children are exposed to online, particularly on social media platforms, which often lack adequate safeguards. Parents should exercise control by enabling parental control settings, educating children about the dangers of drug use, and reporting any harmful content to relevant authorities.”
“For any inquiries or to report content promoting substance abuse, don’t hesitate to get in touch with NACADA through our free helpline at 1192.”
