Abayomi Susan
Polaris Bank has reinforced its dedication to youth development, education, financial literacy, and corporate social responsibility by extending its support to the Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme, held on Thursday, 25 June 2026.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA)—a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists—was organised to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
As part of its contribution to the programme’s successful execution, the bank donated an assortment of branded gift items, including cable chargers, water bottles, umbrellas, piggy banks, and mathematical sets.
The branded water bottles, umbrellas, and cable chargers were distributed to journalists and participants, offering practical everyday utilities. The piggy banks were intended to promote a culture of savings and financial discipline among young people, while the mathematical sets were presented to participating students to encourage academic excellence and learning.
Themed “Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist’s Role in Prevention and Advocacy,” the programme was jointly organised by NOMA 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.
Commenting on the bank’s involvement, the Chairperson of NOMA, Theresa Moses, expressed deep appreciation to Polaris Bank for partnering with the association to advance initiatives that positively impact education and society.
She noted that the bank’s gesture underscored its unwavering commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and national progress.
“We are sincerely grateful to Polaris Bank for supporting this important programme with branded gift items. Beyond their practical value, these items represent the bank’s commitment to education, financial literacy, youth development, and social impact. Their support contributed significantly to the success of this event,” she stated.
The event drew journalists, media executives, public health professionals, policymakers, anti-drug advocates, students, and representatives of government agencies, all of whom convened to deliberate on strategies for strengthening media advocacy against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Through expert presentations and panel discussions, participants examined the essential role of responsible journalism in advancing prevention efforts, raising public awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting the broader goal of building healthier and safer communities.
Polaris Bank’s support aligns with its long-standing corporate social responsibility strategy, which prioritises education, financial inclusion, youth development, and community empowerment.
By backing the NOMA Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme, the bank has once again demonstrated its conviction that collective action, education, and awareness are fundamental to realising a drug-free Nigeria and empowering citizens to make informed decisions for a better future.
Stakeholders at the programme commended the bank for its continued investment in initiatives that promote positive social values and contribute to national development.
The organisers further observed that partnerships between the private sector and civil society organisations remain indispensable in addressing societal challenges and creating sustainable opportunities for long-term impact.
