The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called upon the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to extend mandatory drug testing to all Nigerian public office holders and political aspirants. This appeal aligns with NDLEA's ongoing advocacy for drug integrity tests across various sectors to combat the nation's escalating drug abuse crisis.
NANS President, Asefon Sunday Daye, emphasized the detrimental impact of drug abuse on Nigerian youth, stating, "Drug has done more harm than good to Nigerian students. We do not want Nigerian students to continue to die of drugs." He further noted that implementing drug tests would not only serve as a preventive measure but also encourage individuals to abandon drug use, knowing that authorities would detect it.
NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd.), has been a vocal proponent of drug testing for political aspirants and public officials. He has advocated for political parties to incorporate drug integrity tests into their screening processes, asserting that individuals in positions of power must be free from drug influence to effectively serve the public.
Several Nigerian states have already adopted policies mandating drug tests for government appointees and employees. NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi highlighted that this initiative, though not yet enshrined in law, has gained traction as a policy in various states, ensuring that individuals seeking elective positions or government appointments undergo drug testing.
The push for mandatory drug testing has also found support within the Nigerian Senate. In July 2023, the NDLEA revealed that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians, aged between 15 and 64, were involved in drug abuse, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue. Senator Kawu Sumaila of Kano-South has been particularly vocal, advocating for drug tests for political office seekers and highlighting the involvement of some politicians in the country's drug crisis.
The NDLEA's advocacy extends beyond the political sphere. The agency has proposed drug testing for students seeking university admission, prospective couples, and employees in both public and private sectors. This comprehensive approach aims to identify and address drug use early, facilitating appropriate interventions.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of drug abuse, the collaboration between NANS and NDLEA represents a concerted effort to promote accountability and integrity among public office holders. By advocating for mandatory drug testing, these organizations aim to foster a culture of responsibility and ensure that leaders are fit to serve the nation's interests.
---
0 Comments