National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, is proposing mandatory drug integrity tests for citizens seeking drivers licence.
The proposal is part of efforts to curb the rising cases of drug-influenced road crashes across the country.
The NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa (rtd) disclosed this in a goodwill message at the National Summit of the Special Marshals of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Wednesday in Abuja.
Marwa, who was represented by a Deputy Commandant-General of Narcotics, Mr Umoru Ambrose, described FRSC and NDLEA as “partners in progress.”
He emphasised that while the corps is on the road to prevent accidents and assist victims, NDLEA focuses on addressing the underlying causes of crashes, security problems and health challenges.
“From research over the years, we found out that drug abuse plays a very significant role in accidents on most of our highways.
“It is in that respect that NDLEA has been collaborating with FRSC,” he said.
Marwa revealed that both agencies are working on a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, that is nearing completion and would benefit the public once unveiled.
According to him, NDLEA has done its part and it is waiting for FRSC to also finalise theirs.
“One of the key impacts of the MoU is the issue of drug integrity tests.
“The agency is already propagating drug tests in several organisations, certainly, extending the measure to the transport sector is necessary given FRSC’s role in ensuring safety on our highways.
“That is why we are advocating that drivers should undergo drug tests even before they apply for their licence.
“NDLEA has already trained professionals who are going to train FRSC officials so that they can conduct on-the-spot drug tests for drivers,” he revealed.
Marwa added that the initiative would serve as a deterrent to commercial drivers who may indulge in alcohol and other psychoactive substances on the highways.
The NDLEA boss said the planned collaboration would enable FRSC and NDLEA operatives assess drivers and passengers during joint highway operations.
“In fact, we don’t like commercial drivers on our roads indulging in drugs or alcohol.
“With this measure, FRSC and NDLEA on highways will be able to assess drivers and conduct spot drug tests.
“Once it is ready, NDLEA will bring it to the road for implementation,” he assured.
Marwa thanked the organisers for inviting the agency to the summit, describing it as a platform that reinforces collaboration between institutions working to safeguard lives.
In her opening remarks, the Deputy Corps Marshal, Pauline Olaye described the National Summit of Special Marshals as a historic opportunity to reflect on past achievements, confront present challenges, and chart new strategies to improve road safety on Nigerian roads.
Olaye commended the commitment and sacrifices of special marshals in advancing the mandate of FRSC.
She added that the special marshal initiative had over the years become one of the most enduring platforms for citizens participation in road safety management and advocacy.
The deputy corps marshal said it aligns the work of the corps and its volunteers with emerging realities in administration, technology and public engagement.
She hailed the volunteerism of special marshals across the country, stressing that when driven by passion and patriotism, it has the power to leave a lasting mark on the the society.
