NDLEA is pushing for compulsory drug tests for licence applicants in Nigeria to curb drug-related road crashes.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has proposed mandatory drug integrity tests for drivers applying for licences in Nigeria. Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, disclosed this at the National Summit of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Special Marshals in Abuja on Wednesday. Represented by Deputy Commandant General of Narcotics, Umoru Ambrose, he said the initiative would help reduce drug-related road crashes.
Marwa explained that NDLEA and FRSC are finalising a Memorandum of Understanding that will strengthen collaboration in tackling drug-influenced driving. “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,” he said.
He added that NDLEA has trained professionals to equip FRSC officials to conduct on-the-spot drug tests for drivers, stressing the move would deter commercial drivers from drug or alcohol use. The measure would also extend to passengers during routine checks.
The proposal comes as the federal government pushes broader anti-drug efforts, including compulsory drug testing for university students and integrating drug education into secondary school curricula.