By Ade Iyamoye
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), is pushing for mandatory drug testing of all prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), members to curb the growing tide of substance abuse among Nigerian youth.
NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), made the call through Dr. Ngozi Madubuike, the agency’s Director of Drug Demand Reduction, at a three-day Drug Prevention Treatment and Care (DPTC) training in Abuja.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM).
Marwa said implementing drug screening at NYSC camps will act as a deterrent while enabling early intervention for those who test positive.
He disclosed that some universities and state governments have already adopted the policy, which is gaining wider acceptance across the country.
“If young people are aware that drug tests await them at NYSC camps, they will think twice before indulging. The aim is not to punish, but to help,” he said.
He added that NDLEA now supplies affordable testing kits to schools and deploys trained officers to conduct tests as part of its broader demand reduction strategy.
While the agency continues to make arrests and seizures, Marwa stressed the importance of education, rehabilitation, and community engagement.
“We cannot win this fight alone. Families, schools, religious institutions and communities must play active roles,” he stated.
The training seeks to empower religious leaders and community influencers to support families battling addiction and educate youths about the dangers of drug abuse.
Also speaking, childhood education expert Juliet Michael described the initiative as timely, citing the erosion of discipline and values among youths.
She urged parents to become active role models and create positive environments at home.
Programme coordinator Dr. Edikanabasi Udoh said the training will help communities detect early signs of drug use and guide affected individuals towards recovery.
The NDLEA says millions of Nigerians, especially young and talented individuals, are trapped in addiction.
With rehab centres now established in 30 states, the agency is calling for nationwide support in its fight against the drug crisis.
