The Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kwara State, Hajia Fatima Abiola-Popoola, has suggested that universities implement mandatory drug tests for all newly admitted students as part of their entry requirements.
According to her, this initiative could act as a preventive measure, allowing for early detection and intervention for those already engaged in drug use. The goal would be to offer counseling and support before such usage escalates into more serious issues. Hajia Abiola-Popoola made these remarks during a radio program in Ilorin, where our correspondent monitored the discussion.
She also expressed her growing concern about the increasing number of drug users in Nigeria, especially among women. The NDLEA Commandant emphasized that this rising trend poses significant risks not only to individual families but to society as a whole.
Citing data from a 2018 survey, she stated, “14.3 million people in Nigeria are using drugs. This means that one out of every seven people is a drug user, and shockingly, one out of every four drug users is a woman.” She further warned that this is particularly troubling, as women often play a central role in managing households, making this a societal issue that cannot be ignored.
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