JAMB candidates to undergo drug tests before enrollment

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced that students seeking admission into tertiary institutions will now be screened for drug use, as part of efforts to curb substance abuse among youths.

Speaking at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja following his reappointment for a second five-year term, NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.) said the new measure aims to catch drug use at an early stage.

He said, “The Honourable Minister of Education…has accepted our recommendation for drug tests for our children on admission to tertiary institutions, so that with this, we can catch them young before it gets into the addiction stage.”

Marwa explained that this initiative is part of a broader strategy by the agency to prevent drug abuse while promoting legitimate alternatives for youths. “We are going to support licit cultivation of crops that are legitimate, legal, and you can sleep with your two eyes closed,” he added, referring to efforts to steer youths away from illicit drug activities.

He also reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to prevention, sensitisation, counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation, noting the expansion of rehabilitation centres nationwide. “With the support of the President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, seven more rehab centres are coming up under the 2025 budget that will now make every state have its own rehab centre,” Marwa said.

The chairman warned drug traffickers that enforcement would be tough. “Those who refuse to desist can be sure that the NDLEA is up and able on its task of law enforcement. You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated,” he said.