The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency- NDLEA is advocating for mandatory drug testing for all prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps.
NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa said the agency is tackling drug abuse by promoting drug testing in universities, communities, and among families.
He spoke during a ‘Training the Trainer’ event, organised by NDLEA in partnership with a religious organization in Abuja. The initiative aims to equip church leaders and community influencers with tools to educate youths, prevent drug use, and support families battling addiction.
Represented by Ngozi Madubuike, NDLEA’s Director of Drug Demand Reduction, Marwa said drug tests at NYSC camps would help deter substance use. He explained that the tests would also enable timely support and intervention for those who test positive for drugs during orientation.
According to report the agency is pushing for drug test requirements in other sectors, including public service, in spite of some opposition. He emphasised that urgent collective action is needed to address the rising trend of drug abuse in the country.