MTN Foundation, NDLEA Launch Lifeline Helpline to Support Nigerian Youths Against Drug Abuse

In a bold step to protect young Nigerians from the rising dangers of substance abuse, the MTN Foundation, in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has unveiled a 24/7 psychosocial support helpline (08010203040).

The helpline, available in multiple local languages, will connect individuals to professional psychologists who can offer free counselling, guidance, and support.

Unveiled in Kaduna during a stakeholders’ workshop on teachers’ training, the initiative is a cornerstone of the Foundation’s Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP). The programme seeks to empower 1,440 teachers and sensitise over 86,400 public secondary school students across 12 states.

Beyond the helpline, the campaign also includes quiz competitions, community sensitisation outreaches with NYSC corps members, and a three-day capacity-building workshop for secondary school teachers in Kaduna and Kwara.

Speaking at the flag-off, Abubakar Zubairu of MTN Foundation described the initiative as more than a programme, it is a lifeline.

“The need to scale this subject matter is urgent. Success for us is not only in the numbers trained, but in the long-term change in behaviour and attitudes among our young people. Together, we can build a drug-free nation.”

Educators trained in Kaduna and Kwara have been equipped with tools to teach decision-making, social skills development, and resilience-building, ensuring that prevention becomes part of everyday classroom engagement.

With its combined focus on teacher empowerment, student sensitisation, psychosocial counselling, and community engagement, the initiative represents a safety net and lifeline for Nigerian youths, helping them rise above peer pressure, make informed choices, and embrace healthier futures.