By Ayomide Otitoju
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant progress in its fight against drug abuse, particularly with increased cooperation from state governments.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi disclosed that several state governments have adopted the agency’s advocacy to implement mandatory drug tests for political appointees and employees.
“It’s an advocacy move and has been ongoing since 2021. Quite a number of state governments are already making it a policy to ensure that anyone seeking an elective position or an appointment undergoes drug tests,” Babafemi said. “It’s not a law, but we continue to encourage stakeholders to buy into this initiative.”
Babafemi also revealed that in the last four years, the NDLEA, under the leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), has arrested, prosecuted, and convicted around 65 drug barons, including former public office holders. He noted that some of those convicted had held positions such as local government chairmen, while several high-profile individuals are currently facing prosecution.
Beyond politics, the NDLEA spokesman highlighted that employers and tertiary institutions have also adopted drug tests as part of their screening process.
“This is not just about politics or employment; young people seeking admission into tertiary institutions are also undergoing drug tests,” he stated. “We are pleased that both private and public institutions are making this a policy, all in a bid to reduce the demand for illicit substances.”
Babafemi further disclosed that the agency has advocated for prospective couples to undergo drug tests before marriage, adding that traditional and religious institutions are beginning to adopt the initiative.
The NDLEA remains committed to curbing drug abuse in Nigeria and continues to push for policies that discourage substance use across different sectors of society.
