In a bold move to combat the rising tide of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is advocating for a mandatory drug integrity test for students seeking admission into higher institutions across Nigeria.
The initiative, currently being pursued as a presidential policy, aims to institutionalize drug testing as a prerequisite for high institution entry, part of a broader strategy to foster a drug-free academic environment and safeguard the future of young Nigerians.
Speaking at the National Youths Enlightenment/Sensitisation Seminar (NAYES), hosted by News Emperor Magazine at Lagos Airport Hotel on August 28, 2025, NDLEA Chairman Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), represented by ACN Uche Sampson, emphasized that the war against drug abuse demands collective action. He described the proposed integrity test as a preventive tool to discourage drug use among students before they enter tertiary institutions.
According to Marwa, the drug integrity test will help reduce the alarming rate of addiction among school-age youths.
Pastor Ambrose Obioma Okehi, Convener of the seminar and Publisher of News Emperor Magazine, shared his personal motivation for championing the cause. Since 2019, he has envisioned a partnership with NDLEA to use media as a tool for youth sensitization—a dream delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic but now revived. He revealed plans to publish a book aimed at educating young Nigerians on the dangers of drug abuse.
Okehi’s passion stems from a personal experience, having survived an attack by a drug addict. “This fight is personal,” he said, “and I’m committed to helping others avoid similar trauma.”
Guest speaker Prof. Samuel Babatunde, Rector of the Port and Terminal Management Academy of Nigeria, highlighted the scale of the crisis. Citing the UNODC’s 2018 National Drug Use Survey, he noted that over 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15–64 use psycho, with those aged 15–35 being the most vulnerable.
He defined drug abuse as the harmful use of substances—including alcohol and illicit drugs—that leads to physical, mental, and social consequences.
Alhaji (Dr) Segun Musa, MD/CEO of Widescope Logistics International, was represented by Mr. Onoruoiza Onuchi, Director of Business Development and Strategy. In his goodwill message, Musa praised the seminar’s organizers for their innovative approach to youth education and urged young Nigerians to reject drug abuse, warning of its link to crime and societal breakdown.
The seminar drew a diverse crowd, including youth representatives from Mission For Souls Church, and served as a platform for dialogue, education, and empowerment.