Association of Advocates Against Alcohol Harm in Nigeria, ASAAHN, on Thursday 29th September, 2022, held its 2nd AGM advocating for an effective alcohol policy in Nigeria. ASAAHN was officially launched on 18th June, 2020, as a coalition of CSOs, whose main objective is to advocate for an effective alcohol policy in Nigeria.
At the AGM, after the introduction of the Executives led by the Deputy ED, there was also an introduction of members and their NGOs, which was moderated by the Secretary.
Thereafter, Dr. Valetine Okoh gave a brief history of ASAAHN and its goals, which was followed by the review of the last AGM. The achievements of the Executives of ASAAHN in the past year was presented by the Executive Director, while problems encountered during this administrative year was presented alongside plans for the next year.
Mr. Ediomo-Ubong Nelson made a presentation on developments in global alcohol policy, focusing on the Global Alcohol Action Plan to implement the strategy to reduce alcohol harms. He enjoined those in attendance to familiarize themselves with the documents because it is the template guiding advocacy and action to address alcohol problems.
ASAAHN Board Chairman, Pharmacist Kenechukwu Ujam, moderated the way forward for ASAAHN and feedback from the CSOs as well as their activities before he gave the closing remarks.
Speaking to P.M.EXPRESS after the AGM, one of the Executives of Association of Advocates Against Alcohol Harm in Nigeria (ASAAHN), Mr. Olusesan Samuel-Kayode, gave an insight into the activities of the association.
Mr. Samuel-Kayode said, “ASAAHN’s main objective is to advocate for the development and implementation of an effective alcohol policy based on the WHO best buys (SAFER initiative). We have consistently ensured that these policy areas are not watered down and free from the industry influence”.
“We have also maintained a very good working relationship with the Federal Ministry of Health and WHO Nigeria office and we hope to continue building on this relationship.”
“At ASAAHN, we seek to promote and facilitate information sharing on alcohol and alcohol related issues. To initiate, facilitate and conduct research on alcohol and alcohol policies and programmes. To empower young people to become advocates in reducing harm due to alcohol, through dialogue across the culturally diverse Nigerian populations. To strengthen the capacities of civil society organizations and development professionals involved in alcohol policies and programming.
To encourage, support and strengthen partnerships between member organizations and the Nigerian government on the implementation of alcohol policies and programmes.”
“We also mobilize and facilitate access to financial, human and technical assistance and resources required for the development, implementation and evaluation of alcohol policies and programmes. We equally design rehabilitation programmes for persons with Alcohol-related problems/Dependence.”
“Every year, over 3 million deaths are attributed to alcohol use. Although there is currently no nationally representative household data on alcohol consumption or use in Nigeria, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis on NCDs and risk factors estimates the prevalence of 34.3% for harmful use of alcohol. We’re doing everything possible to address the aforementioned areas” Samuel-Kayode concluded.