NOMA Urges Responsible Reporting on Drug Abuse

The Chairperson of the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), Theresa Moses, has called on journalists and media practitioners to promote accurate, ethical and prevention-focused reporting on drug abuse and illicit trafficking, saying the media plays a critical role in shaping public attitudes and driving behavioral change.

Moses made the call on Thursday during a media capacity-building program organized by NOMA at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The event, themed "Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist's Role in Prevention and Advocacy," was organized in collaboration with the International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP Nigeria), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba.

Describing the event as more than a commemorative gathering, Moses said it was a collective call to confront one of Nigeria's most pressing public health and social challenges.

"Today's gathering is an opportunity for reflection, learning, collaboration and renewed commitment to addressing one of the most pressing social and public health challenges facing our nation and the world," she said.

She noted that drug abuse and illicit trafficking continue to threaten families, communities, schools and the future of many young Nigerians, with consequences extending to public health, security, education, productivity and national development.

Moses said journalists must recognize their influence beyond reporting the news.

"As journalists and media practitioners, we are not merely watchdogs of society. We are storytellers, agenda-setters, educators and advocates.

The stories we tell, the language we use, the facts we verify and the issues we prioritize shape public understanding and influence behaviour," she said.

She said the program's theme was deliberately chosen to emphasize the media's responsibility in preventing substance abuse through accurate, balanced and evidence-based reporting.

According to her, responsible journalism can help reduce drug abuse by educating the public, amplifying expert voices, promoting proven prevention strategies and reducing the stigma surrounding treatment and recovery.

Conversely, she warned that sensational reporting, misinformation and the glorification of drug use could undermine public health efforts.

"Responsible journalism requires accuracy, balance, ethical considerations and evidence-based reporting, particularly when covering issues related to substance abuse and mental health," Moses said.

She thanked the speakers, partners and sponsors for supporting the initiative, including the Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye; ISSUP Nigeria President, Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo; and NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, retired Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa.

Moses also acknowledged representatives of the Lagos State Government, media stakeholders, corporate sponsors and development partners for contributing to the success of the program.

NOMA is a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists committed to promoting ethical journalism, media development and public advocacy across Nigeria.