The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has introduced a new policy that requires students seeking admission to tertiary institutions in Nigeria to undergo mandatory drug screening. This initiative aims to tackle the rising issue of substance abuse among young people in the country. According to NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, the policy is designed to identify drug use early and prevent addiction.
The Ministry of Education has approved the proposal as part of a broader preventive framework to discourage drug abuse and promote alternative livelihoods for youths. Marwa explained that the agency will continue to support the cultivation of legal crops, providing a safer and more responsible path for young people. The NDLEA has also reaffirmed its commitment to prevention, awareness creation, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation.
To expand rehabilitation services, the agency has budgeted for seven additional rehabilitation centers in 2025, which will be established in various states across the country. This development is expected to increase access to treatment for individuals struggling with addiction. Marwa emphasized the agency’s preparedness to clamp down on drug traffickers and others involved in the illicit trade, warning that offenders will face arrest, seizure of drugs, and asset forfeiture.
The introduction of mandatory drug screening for tertiary‑institution applicants is a significant step toward addressing the growing concern of substance abuse among young Nigerians. With the support of the Ministry of Education and the government, the NDLEA’s efforts to prevent addiction, promote alternative livelihoods, and expand rehabilitation services are crucial for safeguarding the well‑being and future of the country’s youth. Ongoing monitoring of these initiatives and continued support for those affected by substance abuse will help Nigeria reduce drug abuse and promote a brighter future for its young people.
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