NDLEA Chairman Says New Compulsory School Drüg Tests Will Curb Abûse Among Youth

The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), stated on Saturday that the agency’s newly introduced compulsory drug testing policy in schools is a crucial strategy to reduce substance abuse, particularly among young students preparing for tertiary education.

Marwa made these comments while hosting a delegation from Taraba State University led by its Vice Chancellor, Professor Sunday Bako. He emphasized that a collaborative approach involving schools and state governments is essential to effectively combat the drug abuse epidemic among youth.

The NDLEA Chairman clarified that the policy mandates both compulsory and random drug testing for students, framing it as a preventive, rather than punitive, measure. He explained its goal is to safeguard youth development, enhance national security, and boost productivity, aligning with the goals of President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

During the meeting, Marwa commended Taraba State University for its proactive step in establishing a Directorate of Narcotics and Drug Abuse Prohibition and pledged the NDLEA’s full support through training and collaborative programs. In response, Vice Chancellor Prof. Bako praised the agency’s professionalism and underscored that successful drug control requires a united front between law enforcement, academic institutions, and society at large.