Marwa Advocates for Required Drug Testing for Corps Members
Marwa Advocates for Required Drug Testing for Corps Members
Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has clarified that the agency’s advocacy for mandatory drug integrity tests for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and prospective couples is focused on prevention rather than punishment. The aim is to discourage substance abuse and to provide early intervention for users before they become addicted.
Marwa’s comments came during a recent visit from the NYSC Director General, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, and other senior NYSC officials to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja. This follows a social media outcry over the agency’s earlier proposal advocating for mandatory drug testing for prospective NYSC members.
Highlighting the alarming rates of drug abuse in Nigeria, Marwa noted that one in seven Nigerians aged 15 to 64 engages in drug use. “The drug crisis is wreaking havoc on our youth, families, and communities. Drug abuse permeates every corner of the country,” he remarked.
Marwa emphasized the agency’s commitment not only to reducing the supply of drugs but also to addressing the demand through educational initiatives, counseling, and rehabilitation. He welcomed the introduction of War Against Drug Abuse clubs in NYSC orientation camps as a positive step forward.
“Implementing drug integrity tests for corps members is a critical strategy in reducing demand. Similarly, requiring intending couples to obtain drug-free certificates is vital for early detection, which can prevent the escalation to addiction and associated psychiatric issues,” he explained.
As part of his proposal, Marwa suggested assigning corps members with expertise in Guidance and Counseling, Psychology, Nursing, and Psychiatry to NDLEA Counseling and Treatment Centres nationwide. This would enhance their practical experience in rehabilitation and psychosocial services.
In his response, the NYSC DG lauded the drug integrity test proposal as an “excellent idea” and committed to examining the NDLEA’s suggestions for potential partnership. He also assured that the NYSC would establish a comprehensive guideline for placing qualified corps members at NDLEA Commands with Counseling and Treatment Centres throughout the nation. Nafiu commended Marwa for the NDLEA’s significant achievements under his leadership and reiterated the scheme’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the agency.
