The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed that several state governments in Nigeria have embraced its advocacy for mandatory drug tests for political appointees and employees.
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi disclosed this on Monday during The Morning Brief, a Channels Television breakfast program. He stated that the agency has recorded significant progress in curbing narcotic substance abuse, particularly with the cooperation of state governments.
“It’s an advocacy move, and quite a number of state governments are already making this a policy to ensure that whoever goes for an elective position or is appointed to the state government undergoes drug tests,” Babafemi said.
He also noted that the initiative has gained traction beyond politics, with employers and tertiary institutions integrating drug tests into their screening processes.
Babafemi further revealed that the agency has prosecuted about 65 drug barons in the past four years, including former public office holders. “Even as I speak, we still have quite a number of high-profile individuals currently undergoing prosecution,” he added.
The NDLEA emphasized that the initiative aims to reduce illicit drug consumption, particularly among young people, and strengthen drug control efforts across the country.
