ISSUP Nigeria has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), High Chief Dr. Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu, SAN, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration on rights-based approaches to substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery in Nigeria.
The visit took place on 3 December 2025 at the Office of the Executive Secretary of the NHRC in Abuja. The ISSUP Nigeria delegation was led by the National President, Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo, and included Dr. Chinemerem Iwuanyanwu, Dr. Asemota, Pastor Ifeanyi, Nurse Joy Chukwurah, and Mrs. Rukaya. The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Ojukwu and members of his management team, with the meeting commencing with formal introductions and an overview of ISSUP’s mandate and activities in Nigeria.
In her remarks, the National President expressed appreciation to the Executive Secretary for his exemplary service to the nation and his longstanding commitment to the protection of human rights. She presented ISSUP Nigeria’s “Youth O’Clock” agenda and highlighted a growing human rights concern within educational institutions, where students with substance use disorders are often suspended or expelled rather than provided with appropriate treatment and psychosocial support. She explained that such punitive measures violate students’ rights to health and education and frequently worsen their long-term outcomes by disrupting schooling and limiting future opportunities. Real-life cases were shared to demonstrate the harm caused by these approaches.
ISSUP Nigeria proposed an alternative, rights-based model that encourages tertiary institutions to establish on-campus treatment and rehabilitation centres managed by certified substance use prevention and treatment professionals. This approach, the delegation noted, would support recovery, reduce stigma, create employment opportunities, and generate additional revenue for institutions, resulting in a sustainable and mutually beneficial solution. The delegation also called on the NHRC to collaborate with ISSUP Nigeria in advocating for policies that prioritise treatment and care over punishment for students experiencing substance use disorders.
In his response, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, commended ISSUP Nigeria for its consistent and impactful work in addressing substance use disorders across the country. He reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to partner with ISSUP Nigeria to advance humane, rights-based approaches to substance use treatment and mental health. He further demonstrated this commitment by delegating two senior officers of the Commission to begin engagement with the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, noting that the Ministry’s national mental health programme aligns closely with ISSUP’s objectives. Dr. Ojukwu also graciously accepted the request to serve as a Patron of ISSUP Nigeria, marking an important milestone in the partnership between the two institutions.
The meeting featured an interactive exchange of ideas on strengthening national mechanisms for mental health care, addiction treatment, and human rights protection. The visit concluded with the ISSUP Nigeria delegation formally decorating the Executive Secretary with an ISSUP lapel pin and presenting him with the Youth O’Clock souvenir, symbolising shared commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of individuals affected by substance use disorders.
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