NDLEA: Student drug testing not for expulsion

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has clarified that its proposed drug testing policy for students is intended to provide support rather than lead to expulsion. Femi Babafemi, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, explained on Channels Television’s Morning Brief that the goal is to identify and assist those struggling with substance abuse, not to punish them.

Babafemi stressed that the approach views drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. Positive test results will prompt treatment and support rather than expulsion. The agency collaborates with educational institutions to ensure that affected students receive necessary help and can return to their studies.

He noted that the policy aims to deter drug use through early detection and intervention, offering counseling and treatment services. The NDLEA operates 30 treatment centers nationwide and is expanding its facilities. Additionally, the agency provides a 24-hour call center for mental health support and offers test kits for home use, though these kits are sold at a cost between N5,000 and N10,000.

Babafemi’s comments follow a recent call from NDLEA Kwara State Command’s Hajia Fatima Abiola-Popoola for drug testing to be mandatory for university admissions to address rising drug use.