… Marwa Says Drug Abuse Behind Rising Road Crashes
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has proposed mandatory drug tests for all Nigerians seeking driver’s licences as part of efforts to curb accidents caused by drug-impaired driving.
NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (retd.), made this known on Wednesday in Abuja during the National Summit of Special Marshals of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). He was represented by Deputy Commandant General of Narcotics, Umoru Ambrose.
Marwa explained that drug abuse had been identified as a major factor in many road crashes across the country, stressing the need to extend drug integrity tests to the transport sector.
“From research over the years, we have found out that drug abuse plays a very significant role in accidents on most of our highways. That is why we are advocating that drivers should undergo drug tests even before they apply for their licences,” he said.
The NDLEA boss disclosed that the agency was finalising a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the FRSC to institutionalise the process. According to him, while NDLEA has completed its part of the agreement, the Corps is expected to conclude theirs soon.
“One of the key impacts of the MoU is the issue of drug integrity tests. NDLEA has already trained professionals who will also train FRSC officials to conduct on-the-spot drug tests for drivers,” Marwa added.
He noted that the collaboration would not only target drivers but also enable joint operations where both drivers and passengers could be assessed for drug use.
“In fact, we don’t like commercial drivers on our roads indulging in drugs or alcohol. With this measure, FRSC and NDLEA on the highways will be able to assess drivers and conduct spot drug tests. Once it is ready, the NDLEA will bring it to the road for implementation,” he assured.
On her part, Deputy Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Pauline Olaye, described the summit as an opportunity to evaluate road safety strategies and praised the role of Special Marshals in supporting the agency’s mandate.
She noted that the theme of this year’s summit, “Special Marshals’ Strategic Role in Road Safety Administration”, was timely as it aligned with emerging realities in technology, administration and public engagement.
According to Olaye, the sacrifices and patriotism of the volunteer marshals had left a lasting impact on road safety management in Nigeria.
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