The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is pushing for mandatory drug testing for all prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to combat rising drug abuse among Nigerian youths. NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), announced this initiative during a ‘Training the Trainer’ event in Abuja, emphasizing its importance in preventing substance use.
Marwa explained that drug testing at NYSC camps would not only deter drug use but also facilitate timely support for individuals who test positive, enabling necessary interventions during their orientation. This initiative is part of the broader War Against Drug Abuse campaign, which aims to reduce drug demand and strengthen support networks for affected youths.
He noted that the policy has already seen acceptance in several universities and state governments, with NDLEA supplying affordable test kits and trained personnel to conduct the testing. Marwa stated, “If youths know camps include drug tests, they’ll avoid it. The goal is early help for those who need it.”
The NDLEA also seeks to extend drug testing requirements to other sectors, including public service, despite facing some opposition. Marwa highlighted the need for a collective effort involving parents, teachers, and community leaders to address the root causes of drug abuse, which often stem from social and economic factors.
Participants in the training praised the initiative, stressing its relevance in today’s society where moral values are declining. Experts called for parents to engage more with their children and model positive behaviors to combat the growing crisis of substance abuse.
As the NDLEA continues its dual focus on enforcement and education, Marwa reiterated that collaboration with educational institutions and community leaders is vital to effectively combat drug abuse among Nigerian youths.
