As part of efforts to promote responsible drinking and guide against alcohol misuse, Guinness Nigeria has extended its bespoke DRINKiQ workshop to new intakes of the University of Lagos. DRINKiQ is an interactive platform that aims to enlighten participants on the effects of alcohol and equip them with the relevant information on how to drink responsibly.
The session was part of activities to mark the Orientation Week for new undergraduates who were admitted into the institution through Direct Entry and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Speaking during the session, Head, Sustainability and Responsibility, Guinness Nigeria, Mrs. Adrianne Nwagwu disclosed that the objective of the forum was to contribute to the reduction in cases of alcohol misuse in the society as well as the after effect of the misuse.
“As a company that produces alcoholic beverages, we want to ensure that people consume and enjoy alcoholic beverages the right way, at the right age and at the right time and to also reduce significantly the unwanted effects of alcohol misuse on individuals and our environment” she said.
Mrs Nwagwu stressed that it is important to make responsible decisions regarding drinking and urged the students not to allow peer pressure lead them into drinking when they are not ready. She reiterated that the stipulated age for drinking in Nigeria is 18 and above.
“Part of making responsible drinking decisions is that if you must drink at all, endeavour to alternate alcoholic drinks with water because it helps to keep you refreshed. In addition to this, eating before or whilst drinking is also good as it helps to reduce the speed of alcohol absorption. You must also avoid mixing different drinks in order to keep track of your alcohol intake and you must NEVER be involved in drink-driving” she stated.
Professor Olukayode Amund, the Dean of Student Affairs, University of Lagos added that he was glad to welcome Guinness Nigeria to the forum. “It is not often that we see an alcoholic beverage manufacturer coming to educate people on how to drink responsibly. We are very pleased to have you here today and we look forward to a closer working relationship with you.”
Guinness Nigeria will make additional materials on the programme available on the University’s website, under the counselling unit, to further guide the students and provide more information.
Over the years, Guinness has partnered with several organizations to conduct workshops on responsible drinking. In March 2003, Guinness partnered with the Lagos State Government to organize a DRINKiQ workshop for media personnel and artistes drawn from the Nigerian entertainment industry.