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| NDLEA Chairman Promoting Drug-Free Youth Policy |
NDLEA now wants mandatory drug tests for all NYSC recruits. The agency sees tests as a key tool to curb substance abuse. Brigadier General Buba Marwa announced the call at a training event in Abuja. The session was run in partnership with a faith ministry. The move aims to stop drug use before youth reach camps.
Marwa said tests would deter drug use among new corps members. He spoke during a ‘Training the Trainer’ event held by NDLEA with Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries in Abuja. Dr. Ngozi Madubuike led the agency team at the session. She noted tests help flag drug use early. The plan joins the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse campaign.
Early in 2025, NDLEA seized over five tonnes of illegal drugs. The haul included two tonnes of cannabis and large codeine syrup stocks. The agency also arrested dozens of suspects in major busts. In 2024, it seized 739,040 kg of narcotics and made over 8,228 arrests. These figures show the agency’s broad enforcement reach.
Drug use remains high across regions. South‑West and South‑South lead in prevalence rates. The 2018 UNODC survey found over 14 million users aged 15–64. The North‑West follows with about three million users. Experts warn these trends fuel crime and social decay.
NDLEA now supplies low‑cost test kits to schools and camps. Trained officers help run testing at universities and orientation camps. Stakeholders say tests raise awareness of drug risks. They also link users to early support services. The scheme can guide addicts to treatment fast.
Some critics say mandatory tests could breach recruits’ privacy rights. They worry tests may stigmatize users and harm futures. Rights groups want clear rules on data use and consent. Experts urge balanced policy to protect rights while fighting abuse.
Childhood expert Juliet Michael called the move timely and needed. She blamed peer pressure and weak moral models for rising abuse. Michael urged parents to watch their children’s friends and online habits. She said homes remain key to youth resilience. Workshop voices also praised the event’s power to guide addicts.
Marwa urged school leaders, religious figures, and families to team up for drug prevention. He said only united action can cut youth drug use. The agency plans to push tests to public service and other sectors. They aim for a drug‑free national culture by 2026.
The debate on mandatory tests must include all voices. Nigerians should discuss tests’ role in and out of camps. Share your views on social media and community meetings.