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NDLEA Advocates Mandatory Drug Integrity Test for Tertiary Admissions During Visit to Federal Polytechnic Oko

The Anambra State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), CN Onubogu Charles Orakwue, has called for the introduction of a mandatory Drug Integrity Test as a prerequisite for admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

The Commander made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, at the institution’s administrative headquarters.

According to CN Orakwue, the proposal forms part of a nationwide campaign by the NDLEA aimed at curbing the growing menace of illicit drug use among young people. He explained that the initiative seeks to significantly reduce substance abuse among students and promote a healthy mental state conducive to academic excellence.

Lamenting the prevalence of drug abuse among youths, the NDLEA State Commander disclosed that the agency has already visited six tertiary institutions in Anambra State to advocate the inclusion of drug integrity testing in their admission processes. He emphasized that the fight against drug abuse requires the collective effort of educational institutions, government agencies, parents and other critical stakeholders.

In her response, the Rector, Dr. Awuzie, welcomed the NDLEA delegation and commended the agency’s proactive efforts to combat drug abuse in society. She noted that substance abuse continues to undermine students’ academic performance and expose many young people in Nigerian tertiary institutions to serious health risks.

While expressing support for the initiative, the Rector recommended the enactment of a legislation by the National Assembly to make drug integrity testing compulsory for all tertiary institutions in the country. According to her, a legal framework would ensure uniform compliance nationwide.

The Deputy Rector (Academic), Dr. Nkiruka Akabuike, also endorsed the proposal and urged the NDLEA to extend its advocacy campaign to secondary schools, stressing that early intervention would help address the problem at its roots.

Similarly, the Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Nwabu Ezemba, suggested that the NDLEA should incorporate rehabilitation support for candidates who may fail the drug test during admission screening. She observed that such a measure would provide affected individuals an opportunity to overcome addiction and reapply successfully in the future.

Other principal officers present at the meeting included the Deputy Rector (Administration), Dr. Ferguson Ezeokafor; the Registrar, Mr. Adeleke Ayoola; and the Bursar, Mr. Jasper Anunike.

The visit underscores growing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and educational institutions in addressing drug abuse and promoting a safer academic environment nationwide.

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