ISSUP National Chapter Spotlight
The National Chapters Spotlight Interview is an ISSUP series that highlights the people leading and shaping our National Chapters globally. This Q&A aims to increase the visibility of ISSUP's National Chapters and recognise their contributions to strengthening the global ISSUP network.
This month’s spotlight is on Martin Agwogie (Immediate Past ISSUP Nigeria Director), who shares insights into his work, experience, and role within the ISSUP community.
Read the full bio of Martin Agwogie.
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Can you briefly tell us about your professional background and how you became involved with the National Chapter?
I am a man of many hats. My academic background spans chemistry, human resource management, and psychology. Also, I previously worked with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria for 23 years.
I first encountered ISSUP in 2016 during an African Union meeting in Cape Town, South Africa. Inspired by the organisation’s vision, I became the second Nigerian to register as a member. My interest grew even stronger after attending the ISSUP Global Conference in Campinas, Brazil, which was the defining moment when I realised ISSUP Nigeria needed to be established.
In 2017, during the first Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC) training in Nigeria, two early members and I took a symbolic photograph that later came to represent the beginning of ISSUP Nigeria. Following extensive stakeholder engagement, the National Chapter was formally established in 2018 and inaugurated in 2019.
To you, what three words best describes ISSUP?
Unique. Family. Brand.
Could you share a memorable experience or story that has stayed with you from your time volunteering with ISSUP. Any favourite memories?
One of my most cherished memories is from the 2022 ISSUP Global Conference in Abu Dhabi. More than eighty Nigerians attended, many of whom were meeting me in person for the first time. As I walked into the lunch area, the room erupted with excitement as members gathered around. It was a moving expression of appreciation and camaraderie, and it remains one of my fondest reflections.
Where do you see ISSUP in the next five years and in the next decade?
Reflecting on ISSUP’s first decade and looking toward the future, I imagine a time when being outside ISSUP, whether as a member or an affiliate, will feel almost impossible for professionals working in the field.
What has been the impact of ISSUP personally and at a national level in Nigeria?
ISSUP Nigeria emerged as a timely response to the country’s need for a unified platform that could bring diverse professionals together under a shared commitment to drug demand reduction. What began as a small group has grown into a vibrant national community.
Today, members identify not primarily by their professional titles such as psychologist, counsellor, psychiatrist, pharmacist, or social worker but simply as ISSUP members. In many ways, ISSUP has become both the brand and the identity that connects us.
What is unique about your National Chapter? What is your vision for your National Chapter?
ISSUP Nigeria is unique because of the diversity and dedication of its members.
Looking to the future, I envision ISSUP Nigeria becoming a strong rallying point for drug demand reduction in the country, recognized nationally for its competence, expertise, and discipline.
Anything else you would like to share? Final thoughts or reflections you'd like to leave us with?
I encourage young professionals to maintain a spirit of volunteering and to embrace continuous learning. These values have shaped my own journey and continue to inspire the growth and evolution of ISSUP Nigeria.