Marwa gives reason drug test for politicians, students, workers is necessary
Mohammed Buba Marwa
ChairMAN of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd) has indicated the new order demanding the conduct of drug test on politicians, workers and students would provide urgent help for those who need treatment and rehabilitation, in addition to serving as deterrence.
According to a statement by NDLEA’s Director, Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, in Abuja yesterday, Marwa stated this in his remarks while signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Primly Services Limited for the supply of free drug test kits to the agency.
The statement noted that Marwa, who was elated by the signing of the MoU almost three years after the Federal Government approved the deal, said: “At the centre of drug demand reduction is drug testing.
“Practically, all Nigerians should be subjected to drug test- politicians, students, workers and all. We have set the ball rolling at the agency, because charity begins at home.
“This will enable us know those afflicted, who need treatment and rehabilitation. Equally, it will deter drug abuse, because if you know that the result of a drug test will hamper your progression in school, political career or at work, it will deter you.
“In the same vein, we do expect parents to make sure their children don’t get married to addicts by insisting on drug test before marriage.”
He expressed delight in the readiness of the Managing Director of the firm, Dr. Vincent Udenze, to always contribute to efforts to rid Nigeria of illicit substances and the firm for its professionalism and willingness to partner with NDLEA in fighting the drug scourge afflicting the country.
Speaking earlier, Udenze said apart from the test kits coming to NDLEA at no cost, “we will ensure that the kits are one of the best in the country and we will not fail in our duty in this regard.”
