The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has stated that students seeking entry into tertiary institutions nationwide will now undergo compulsory drug screening, reinforcing an earlier agreement between the agency and the Federal Ministry of Education on drug integrity testing and the inclusion of drug education in the secondary school curriculum.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), revealed this at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja shortly after securing his reappointment for another five-year term.
He noted that the renewed policy aims to detect drug use early and curb the growing trend of substance abuse among young Nigerians.
According to him, the Ministry of Education has already endorsed the NDLEA’s proposal.
“The Honourable Minister of Education has accepted our recommendation for drug tests for our children upon admission into tertiary institutions, so that we can detect early and intervene before drug use escalates into addiction,” Marwa said.
He stated that the initiative is part of a wider preventive strategy meant to discourage drug misuse while encouraging safer and lawful choices for youths.
Marwa further explained that the agency will continue backing licit cultivation of approved crops, describing it as a responsible alternative for sustainable livelihoods.
Reiterating the NDLEA’s emphasis on prevention, awareness, counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation, Marwa pointed to ongoing efforts to broaden recovery services across the country.
“With the backing of the President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, seven additional rehabilitation centres have been budgeted for in 2025. This means every state will soon have its own rehab facility,” he stated.
The NDLEA chairman also issued a strong caution to drug traffickers and individuals participating in the illicit drug economy, stressing the agency’s readiness to act decisively.
“Those who refuse to desist can be certain that the NDLEA is up to the task. You will be arrested, your drugs will be seized, and your assets will be forfeited,” he warned.
