The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria has expressed strong confidence that mandatory drug testing in schools will significantly deter illicit substance use among young people. The policy targets those seeking admission to tertiary institutions.
Okay News reports that NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, retired Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, highlighted the initiative’s potential. He spoke during a courtesy visit by Professor Sunday Paul Bako, Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, to NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital.
The delegation explored collaboration against drug abuse and trafficking in academic settings. NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy Femi Babafemi confirmed the discussions.
Marwa welcomed the partnership with the university and Taraba State government. He noted alignment with a new national policy requiring compulsory and random drug integrity tests for tertiary students.
“This initiative is a joint effort between the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat substance abuse among young people in schools across the country,” Marwa stated.
“This is not in any way punitive, but a strategic push that will largely discourage our youths from going into substance abuse because they know at every stage of their education, they will face compulsory drug tests,” he added.
“We are fully prepared to work with all schools to ensure the success of this great initiative that will make a positive impact on youth development, security and national productivity in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu,” Marwa emphasised.
Professor Bako praised Marwa’s leadership and recent tenure renewal. He commended NDLEA’s professionalism in protecting youth and national future.
The Vice Chancellor expressed concern over drug threats to academic excellence and moral values. He sought strengthened ties, building on prior engagements like the university’s drug-free club launch.
Proposed areas include research, policy studies, sensitisation programmes, training, internships, and community outreach. Bako stressed multi-sectoral approaches involving enforcement, academia, and society.
“Partnership with the NDLEA will further strengthen our institutional policies and programmes in this critical area,” he stated.
This policy reflects growing efforts to address substance abuse in Nigeria’s education system. It promotes prevention through testing and awareness.
The collaboration supports President Tinubu’s agenda for youth development and security. It aims for sustainable impact on national productivity.
