NDLEA, FRSC plan drug tests for commercial drivers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced plans to work with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to introduce drug testing for commercial vehicle drivers across the country.

The initiative is aimed at reducing road accidents linked to substance abuse and ensuring that drivers are fit to transport passengers and goods.

The NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, disclosed this on Thursday in Benin, Edo State, during a stakeholder engagement on drug abuse prevention and control.

Marwa explained that some commercial drivers take drugs to remain awake for long hours and make more trips in a bid to increase their daily earnings.

He warned that the practice could affect their ability to make sound decisions while driving, putting their lives, passengers and other road users at risk.

According to him, drivers who depend on drugs to stay active during long journeys may eventually become confused, sleepy or lose control of their vehicles, which could result in fatal accidents.

The NDLEA boss called on transport unions to take stronger action against the use of alcohol and illicit substances in motor parks.

He said he had already engaged transport workers in Edo State on the matter and received assurances that they would support efforts to address drug abuse among commercial drivers.

Marwa also renewed his call for mandatory drug tests for couples preparing for marriage, suggesting that the screening should become part of the requirements alongside HIV and genotype tests.

He explained that individuals who test positive for illicit drug use should be encouraged to undergo rehabilitation and provide negative test results before proceeding with their marriages.

The NDLEA chairman said the proposal was not intended to prevent couples from getting married but to ensure that those struggling with substance abuse receive the necessary treatment.

He maintained that tackling drug abuse required the involvement of government agencies, families, community leaders and other members of society.

Marwa further disclosed that the agency arrested at least 1,200 suspected drug offenders and recovered more than 30 tonnes of illegal substances in Edo State within the previous year.

He put the prevalence of drug use in the state at approximately 15 per cent among people between the ages of 15 and 64, describing the situation as a major concern.

He urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to their children's conduct and seek help whenever they notice unusual behavioural changes that could indicate substance abuse.

The NDLEA chief also called on schools to establish drug-free clubs and counselling centres to educate students about the dangers of taking illegal substances.

He urged media organisations to use their platforms to discourage the promotion of drug use, particularly by entertainers and other influential public figures.