The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has introduced compulsory drug screening for all students seeking admission into tertiary institutions nationwide, as part of stronger efforts to curb increasing substance abuse among young people.
The Chairman of the agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), made this known at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja after his reappointment for another five-year tenure.
He stated that the newly approved policy aims to detect early signs of drug use and stop young Nigerians from drifting into addiction.
He confirmed that the Ministry of Education has endorsed the proposal.
According to him, the Honourable Minister of Education has accepted the recommendation for drug tests for children entering tertiary institutions, so early detection and intervention can take place before drug use develops into addiction.
He added that the initiative is part of a wider preventive strategy focused on discouraging drug misuse and encouraging young people to pursue lawful and productive alternatives.
Marwa also said the agency will continue to promote legal crop cultivation, describing it as a safer and more responsible means of livelihood.
He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s dedication to prevention, awareness campaigns, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation, noting that the agency is working to increase rehabilitation facilities across the country.
He disclosed that with the support of the President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, seven additional rehabilitation centres have been included in the 2025 budget, bringing the nation closer to having a rehab facility in every state.
The NDLEA Chairman also issued a strong warning to drug traffickers and others involved in illegal drug activities, stressing that the agency is fully ready to clamp down on offenders.
He warned that anyone who refuses to stop should expect firm action from the agency, stating that they will be arrested, their drugs will be seized, and their assets will be confiscated.
