The NDLEA says it plans to make drug integrity tests mandatory for drivers applying for licenses in Nigeria.
Chairman Buba Marwa explained at an FRSC summit in Abuja that the move would help cut drug-related crashes.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has proposed mandatory drug integrity tests for drivers applying for licenses in Nigeria, as part of efforts to curb the growing number of drug-related road crashes.
The proposal was announced by NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, in a goodwill message at the National Summit of the Special Marshals of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Wednesday in Abuja. He was represented by the Deputy Commandant General of Narcotics, Umoru Ambrose.
Marwa disclosed that the NDLEA and FRSC are finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on drug-related road safety challenges.
“From research over the years, we have found out that drug abuse plays a very significant role in the accidents on most of our highways. It is in that respect that NDLEA has been collaborating with the FRSC,” he said.
A central component of the partnership is the introduction of drug integrity tests for drivers, mainly before they apply for licenses.
“One of the key impacts of the MoU is the issue of drug integrity tests. The agency is already conducting drug tests in several organizations; certainly, extending the measure to the transport sector is necessary. That is why we are advocating that drivers should undergo drug tests even before they apply for their licenses,” Marwa explained.
He revealed that NDLEA has trained professionals who will equip FRSC officials to conduct on-the-spot drug tests for drivers during routine operations.
“With this measure, FRSC and NDLEA on the highways will be able to assess drivers and conduct spot drug tests. Once it is ready, the NDLEA will bring it to the road for implementation,” he added.
The NDLEA and the Federal Ministry of Education have already agreed to integrate drug prevention programs in schools and enforce drug testing in tertiary institutions.
Marwa described the fight against illicit drugs as a battle for the future of Nigerian youth, emphasizing that early intervention in schools and strict enforcement in transport systems are critical steps.
