NDLEA Proposes Mandatory Drug Tests for Drivers Before Licensing

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has proposed that all drivers undergo mandatory drug tests before applying for driver’s licences, in a bid to curb the rising incidence of drug-related road accidents across the country.

The NDLEA Chairman, Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, disclosed this on Wednesday while delivering a goodwill message at the National Summit of the Special Marshals of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Abuja. He was represented by the Deputy Commandant General of Narcotics, Mr. Umoru Ambrose.

Marwa described the FRSC and NDLEA as “partners in progress,” highlighting that while the FRSC focuses on road safety enforcement, the NDLEA addresses underlying causes of crashes, security challenges, and health issues.

“Research over the years shows that drug abuse contributes significantly to accidents on our highways. That is why NDLEA has collaborated closely with the FRSC,” he said.

The NDLEA boss revealed that both agencies are finalising a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving public safety. “One of the key impacts of this MoU is the introduction of drug integrity tests for drivers. NDLEA has trained professionals to train FRSC officials to conduct on-the-spot drug tests,” Marwa explained.

He noted that the initiative would act as a deterrent to commercial drivers using alcohol or psychoactive substances, and would also enable joint FRSC and NDLEA operations to assess both drivers and passengers on highways.

Olayinka Babatunde