The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), has said the newly introduced drug test policy for schools will significantly curb substance abuse, especially among young people seeking admission into tertiary institutions.
Marwa made the statement on Saturday while receiving the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, Prof. Sunday Bako, who visited the agency to seek collaboration in addressing drug abuse among students.
He stressed that sustained partnerships between the NDLEA, educational institutions, and state governments are crucial to reducing substance abuse among youths.
According to him, the policy provides for compulsory and random drug testing of students, explaining that the initiative is preventive rather than punitive.
He noted that the goal is to discourage drug use, promote healthy youth development, enhance security, and boost national productivity in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Marwa also commended Taraba State University for establishing a Directorate of Narcotics and Drug Abuse Prohibition, describing it as a proactive step. He assured the institution of the NDLEA’s support through capacity building, training, and sustained collaboration.
In his remarks, Prof. Bako praised the NDLEA’s professionalism and commitment to tackling drug abuse, adding that effective drug control requires strong cooperation among law enforcement agencies, academic institutions, and the wider society.
