The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has proposed mandatory drug integrity tests for drivers applying for licences, as part of efforts to curb drug-related crashes on Nigerian highways.
NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, disclosed this in a goodwill message delivered by Deputy Commandant General of Narcotics, Umoru Ambrose, at the National Summit of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Special Marshals in Abuja on Wednesday.
Marwa noted that drug abuse had been identified as a major contributor to road accidents, stressing the need to extend ongoing workplace drug testing campaigns to the transport sector.
“One of the key provisions of the MoU we are finalising with the FRSC is the introduction of drug integrity tests for drivers. This measure is necessary to ensure highway safety,” he said.
According to him, NDLEA has trained professionals to equip FRSC officials with skills for conducting on-the-spot drug tests during operations. He added that the initiative would serve as a deterrent to commercial drivers who indulge in drugs or alcohol while on duty.
The collaboration, he explained, would also empower both agencies to jointly assess drivers and passengers during highway patrols once the framework is completed.
Deputy Corps Marshal, Pauline Olaye, in her opening remarks, described the summit as a chance to reflect on past achievements and develop new strategies for road safety. She commended the dedication of special marshals, saying their voluntary service had become a vital platform for citizen involvement in traffic management.
