The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria has proposed a comprehensive Drug Integrity Test initiative aimed at promoting an anti-drug culture across the country. This initiative is set to encompass various segments of society, including secondary school students, prospective university students, employees in both public and private sectors, individuals seeking political offices, and couples intending to marry.Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, unveiled this initiative during his address on World Drug Day. He emphasized that the primary objective of the drug tests is twofold: to prevent drug abuse and to facilitate early detection among users for prompt intervention, including treatment and rehabilitation. The agency has developed specialized test kits capable of detecting 15 different substances, which will be deployed widely in homes, schools, workplaces, and other relevant settings.Marwa highlighted that aside from aiding in the identification of drug abuse, particularly among youth, these measures are intended to act as a deterrent. He also introduced the ‘Save Our Families’ social advocacy campaign, endorsed by the President, which aims to make these drug test kits a standard requirement in homes, schools, and workplaces across Nigeria.Moreover, Marwa underscored NDLEA’s commitment to combating drug dependence by providing counseling and treatment through its 30 treatment and counseling centers nationwide. Over the past three and a half years, these facilities have assisted 33,453 individuals grappling with drug addiction. Additionally, NDLEA’s operational efforts have led to substantial achievements in reducing drug trafficking activities. The agency has apprehended 52,901 drug traffickers, including 48 major operatives, resulting in the conviction of over 9,000 suspects in court. Furthermore, NDLEA has confiscated a staggering 7.6 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances during the same period.Marwa emphasized that curtailing drug supply chains is pivotal not only for combating drug abuse but also for impeding the operations of criminal elements such as insurgents, terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers who rely on narcotics to sustain their activities.In conclusion, NDLEA’s proposed Drug Integrity Test initiative represents a proactive step towards fostering a drug-free environment in Nigeria. By implementing comprehensive drug screening measures and bolstering enforcement efforts, NDLEA aims to safeguard public health, enhance societal well-being, and fortify national security against the backdrop of escalating drug-related challenges.
