The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant strides in its battle against narcotics abuse, especially thanks to the growing cooperation from sub-national governments and other stakeholders across the country.
Speaking during a televised interview on Monday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi revealed that several state governments have embraced the agency’s advocacy to make drug testing mandatory for appointees and employees. This initiative, which began in 2021, encourages state governments to require drug tests for individuals seeking public office or appointment within state governments.
“It’s an advocacy move, and quite a number of states have already adopted this policy. We’re ensuring that anyone who seeks an elective position or appointment in the state government undergoes a drug test,” Babafemi explained. However, he clarified that while the initiative has gained traction, it remains a policy, not a law, and the agency’s role is to encourage support from various stakeholders.
In addition to political figures, Babafemi mentioned that several individuals, including former public office holders, had been arrested, prosecuted, and convicted for their involvement in the drug trade. Over the past four years, 65 drug barons, including former local government officials, have been successfully convicted.
“Even as we speak, several high-profile figures are undergoing prosecution for their illicit drug activities,” Babafemi said, adding that the agency has worked relentlessly to ensure that no one is exempt from facing justice, regardless of their political status.
The NDLEA’s push for drug testing is not limited to the political realm. Babafemi highlighted that employers and educational institutions have also adopted drug tests as part of their hiring and admission processes. This move is aimed at reducing the demand for illicit substances, particularly among the youth. “We’ve seen both public and private institutions make this a policy, ensuring that new employees or students are drug-free before they are admitted or hired.”
The agency has also advocated for drug testing for prospective couples, and Babafemi noted that both traditional and religious institutions are increasingly supporting this initiative. By promoting drug tests at various levels of society, the NDLEA hopes to curb substance abuse and encourage healthier, drug-free environments.
Babafemi emphasized that the agency’s efforts to combat drug abuse are being supported across the country and that these policies are crucial in driving down the demand for illicit substances, especially among young people.
