The MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has introduced a toll-free psychosocial support helpline as part of efforts to combat drug abuse in Nigeria.
The 24/7 service, reachable via 08010203040, will connect callers with trained psychologists for free counselling in several local languages.
The initiative was unveiled on Monday in Kaduna during a stakeholders’ workshop on teachers’ training.
According to the organisers, the helpline is a major feature of the MTN Foundation’s Anti-Substance Abuse Programme, which also aims to train 1,440 teachers and sensitise 86,400 public secondary school students across 12 states.
Speaking at the event, MTN Foundation’s Abubakar Zubairu explained that the campaign would extend beyond the helpline to include quiz competitions, NYSC community outreach, and a three-day training session for 60 secondary school teachers in Kaduna and Kwara.
“Our stakeholder convenings in Lagos and Abuja further strengthened our multi-sectoral partnerships in this fight,” Zubairu said.
ALSO READ: NDLEA seeks collective action against drug abuse and crime
He added, “The teachers’ training in Kaduna and Kwara will pave the way for a digital framework to expand the impact. The need to scale this subject matter is pertinent, and we trust all stakeholders will support this noble cause as we work towards a drug-free nation.”
The Foundation emphasised that success would not only be measured by the number of teachers and students trained but by long-term behavioural and attitudinal changes among young people.
Earlier this month, NRTC reported that the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, working with the Kwara State Government and MTN Foundation, trained 30 teachers in Ilorin under the “Unplugged Teachers Training” programme.
The training focused on building decision-making, social skills, and resilience to help prevent drug use and support students already battling addiction.
With its combined approach of helplines, teacher training, student outreach, and community programmes, the MTN Foundation said its 2025 campaign is designed to strengthen schools and communities in the fight against substance abuse.
