The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has sought the support of the Jigawa State government to compel intending couples and candidates for admission into tertiary institutions to go for drug test.
NDLEA’s Commander in the state, Hajiya Maryam Gambo, made the call on Wednesday at the inauguration of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) in Gumel, Gumel Local Government Area of the state.
Others to be subjected to the drug test include employment seekers as well as those aspiring for political positions.
Gambo said the measure was to check drug abuse among residents of the state, to reduce the menace to the barest minimum, describing the prevalence rate in Nigeria as “worrisome,” compared to global average.
According to her, the 2018 UNODC/Ministry of Health survey indicated that 14.3 million Nigerians, between ages 25 and 64 engaged in drug abuse in the country.
“The World Drug Report ranked Nigeria as the leading country in the abuse of cannabis. And these statistics should worry Nigerians.
“Also, over 2,000 tons of hard drug valued at N90 billion was seized in the country in 10 months. Just last month, over 200 persons were arrested including 49 females.
“Girls, mostly in high schools organise drug parties even here in Jigawa State.
“Therefore, NDLEA is soliciting government support to subject residents to drug test when they are making arrangements for marriage, admission, employment and more importantly, those aspiring for political positions,” she said.
The Commander said that WADA inaugurated in June 2021 by the Chairman of the agency, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), aimed at eliminating drug abuse and trafficking in the country.
“Sequel to the inauguration of WADA programme nationwide, the initiative is aimed at eliminating drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria, hence the need to replicate it in Gumel Emirate.
“The reason for gathering very important dignitaries today, especially traditional institutions is because you are the custodians of the tradition, and mouthpiece and ear of your various communities.
“Therefore, I want the WADA message to be passed to the grassroots.
“The reason why this message must reach all nooks and crannies of Jigawa is because in every community and every home, there is the problem of drug abuse.
“And as we are all seated here today, everyone is affected directly or indirectly.
“Directly in the sense that if you are not using or selling these prohibited drugs, your family member may be involved.
“Indirectly in the sense that as part of the community, if your neighbour is involved, you are also involved and this affects the community as a whole,” she said.
In his remarks, the Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad Sani, admonished parents to ensure that they properly educate their children in both western and Islamic education for brighter future.
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