UNODC Nigeria launches DrugHelpNet: A Network of Nigerian Health Professionals to Provide over-the-phone Assistance to Drug Users in Need

Based on the 2019 Drug Use Survey in Nigeria, UNODC estimates that there are more than three million Nigerians living with some of a drug use disorder. Government imposed lockdowns, implemented across most Nigerian States, weigh particularly heavy on people with drug use disorders. While access to drugs has become more difficult, the same challenges apply to accessing treatment and counselling services. The self-imposed isolation can indeed be burdensome for those suffering from drug use disorders as well as their families.

In order to provide immediate and practical relief, UNODC Nigeria within the framework of the EU-funded Nigeria Drugs Project, partnered with 80 frontline health workers, including medical doctors, drug counsellors and allied professionals across Nigeria to provide over-the-phone assistance for drug users and their loved ones, who need such services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The health professionals who enthusiastically responded to UNODC’s request to establish this network have been trained and certified under the project in drug treatment using the Treatnet methodology and/or Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC).

Thus, people with drug use disorders and/or their family members who experience distress during the lockdown and require advice, whether medical or from a counsellor, will be able to contact any of the underlisted doctors/counsellors in the geopolitical zones where they reside for advice.

Ensuring access to treatment services for drug users is key to achieving SDG3 – Good Health and Wellbeing and we must ensure that we Leave No One Behind by not excluding drug users from the COVID-19 response.