Drug Abuse: Panel on Codeine Control Inaugurated

The Federal Ministry of Health has inaugurated the Codeine Control and Other Related Matters Working Group (CCRWG), who would assist in designing and improving Pharmacy Screening, Monitoring and Surveillance and how those addicted to the abuse of codeine would get Assistance and be rehabilitated in the Society.

Inaugurating the committee in Abuja,Prof. Adewole urged the CCRWG to ensure proper management of Codeine usage by creating adequate supply chain and distribution method to avoid drug abuse.

The Minister noted that the issue of drug abuse was beyond the Health Professionals, thus the need to bring on board other professionals on the committee for better Public Health delivery service for Nigerians.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health,Mr. Clement Uwaifo, said that the issue of drug abuse had become worrisome and of concern to the Federal Government. He added that the inauguration of the Working Group would go a long way in reducing the abuse of drugs like codeine in the Country.

In her acceptance speech, the Chairperson of the CCRWG, Prof. Olwatoyin Odeku, pledged that the Group would take the assignment seriously and deliver on its terms of reference.

Terms of reference for the CCRWG are as follows:

·        Supply Management

·        Engagement and Monitoring of Dispensing outlets in the Communities

·        Public Enlightenment and Advocacy

·        Withdrawal Management

·        Continuous Surveillance

·        Any other activity (ies) that may be identified as additional strategy in addition to the ones specified above.

Boade Akinola (Mrs.)

Director, Media and Public Relations

26/01/2018.