The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, has advocated drug integrity tests for corps members, prospective couples, and others aimed at discouraging substance abuse.

Marwa said the proposed integrity tests were not meant as punitive but preventive measures aimed at discouraging substance abuse.

He said the initiative was also intended to provide early intervention and treatment for individuals “who test positive before their condition deteriorates into drug dependence and other health complications.”

Marwa made this known during a meeting with the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, who paid a courtesy visit to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Congratulating Nafiu on his recent appointment, Marwa described the NYSC as a national treasure and a vital instrument for promoting unity in Nigeria.

He expressed concern over the growing drug menace in the country, saying, “The drug scourge has continued to devastate our kids, families, and communities.

“Everywhere you go in the country, drug abuse is a problem. One in seven Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 64 use drugs.”

While commending efforts to cut off access to drugs, Marwa emphasised the importance of reducing demand, especially among young people, through collaborative initiatives like the drug integrity test.

“One of our key strategies is the drug integrity test, which we are advocating NYSC should adopt for corps members.

“While we focus on reducing the drug supply, we are equally committed to reducing demand through prevention, counselling, and rehabilitation,” he said.

Marwa also commended the introduction of War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) clubs in NYSC orientation camps, describing it as a commendable step.

He added, “Another important area for collaboration is requiring drug integrity tests for corps members.

“Similarly, we advocate that couples intending to marry undergo drug testing. Early detection helps prevent addiction and its associated psychiatric and social problems.”

He proposed further collaboration in posting corps members who studied Guidance and Counselling, Psychology, Nursing, or Psychiatry to NDLEA Counselling and Treatment Centres nationwide as part of their one-year national service.

This, he said, would equip them with valuable experience in rehabilitation and psychosocial support.

In response, Nafiu, accompanied by top officials of the scheme, praised the drug integrity test initiative, describing it as “a fantastic idea.”

He assured Marwa that the scheme would consider the proposal and develop guidelines for deploying corps members with the relevant qualifications to NDLEA commands across the country.

He also commended Marwa for the remarkable achievements recorded by the NDLEA under his leadership and reaffirmed the NYSC’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the agency. (NAN)