The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is pushing for mandatory drug testing for all prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), emphasized the agency’s commitment to tackling drug abuse through testing initiatives in universities, communities, and families.
Speaking at a ‘Training the Trainer’ event in Abuja, organized in partnership with Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Marwa—represented by Mrs. Ngozi Madubuike, NDLEA’s Director of Drug Demand Reduction—highlighted the importance of drug tests at NYSC camps. He explained that these tests would deter substance use and enable timely intervention for those who test positive during orientation.
The initiative is part of the War Against Drug Abuse campaign, which aims to reduce drug demand and strengthen support networks for youths. NDLEA has already implemented similar policies in universities and state governments, supplying affordable test kits and assigning trained officers for testing procedures.
Marwa stressed the need for collective action to address the rising trend of drug abuse, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders, and communities to work together for prevention. He also called for collaboration with NYSC and educational institutions to combat substance abuse among Nigerian youths.
Experts like Juliet Michael, a childhood education specialist, praised the initiative as timely, noting its potential to support families and instill positive values in society. Participants at the event emphasized the importance of early detection and guidance for affected individuals, underscoring the role of parents in nurturing discipline and moral values.