New school drug test policy will curb drug abuse – Marwa

Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), on Saturday said the new drug test policy for schools and tertiary institutions will significantly reduce substance abuse among Nigerian youths.

Marwa made the remarks while receiving the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University (TSU), Prof. Sunday Bako, who led a management team to explore a collaborative partnership with the agency in combating drug abuse.

According to the NDLEA boss, the policy, which includes compulsory and random drug integrity tests for students will serve as a deterrent for youths, including those aspiring to gain admission into universities.

“This initiative is a joint effort between the Federal Ministry of Education and NDLEA. It is not punitive but strategic. Young people will know that at every stage of their education, they may face compulsory drug testing, which will discourage substance abuse,” Marwa said.

He praised TSU for establishing a full Directorate of Narcotics and Drug Abuse Prohibition and promised support through capacity-building and other collaborative programs.

Prof. Bako, in response, commended NDLEA for its professionalism and for earning national and international recognition in the fight against drugs. He emphasized that effective drug control requires a multi-sectoral approach, combining law enforcement, educational institutions, and civil society.

Marwa noted that the agency is ready to work with all schools nationwide to ensure the success of the initiative, which aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda on youth development, security, and national productivity.