Posted by Chinenye on Fri 06th Nov, 2026 - tori.ng
The government is planning a new measure to make Nigerian roads safer after concerns that some commercial drivers use drugs while working.
(NDLEA And FRSC. Photo Credit: Popular Mail)
The NDLEA, is working with the FRSC, to start drug testing for commercial vehicle drivers.
The aim is to cut down on road accidents linked to drug use.
NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, made the announcement on Thursday in Benin at a stakeholder meeting on drug abuse in Edo State.
Marwa said some commercial drivers take drugs to stay awake and make more trips to earn more money.
He warned that these drugs can affect judgement, cause confusion and raise the risk of crashes that put passengers and other road users in danger.
He asked transport unions to ban alcohol and drug use in motor parks.
He said he had already talked to transport workers in Edo, who promised to cooperate.
Marwa also repeated his call for drug tests for couples planning to marry.
He wants these tests done alongside HIV and genotype checks.
Anyone who tests positive should go for rehabilitation and return with a negative result before the wedding.
He called on government bodies, families, schools, religious leaders, transport unions and the media to work together against substance abuse.
NDLEA caught over 1,200 people confiscated more than 30 tonnes of illegal drugs in Edo State.
He said drug use among people aged 15 to 64 in the state is about 15 per cent, which he called unacceptable.
He urged parents to watch their children's behaviour and get help early if they see signs of drug abuse.
He also encouraged schools to set up drug-free clubs and counselling units.
NDLEA Edo Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju said the meeting aimed to improve intelligence sharing, public awareness, prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation.
Edesili Okpebholo-Anani, who coordinates the Edo Governor's Wife's Office and chairs the state drug control committee, called drug abuse a growing threat to families and communities.
She praised NDLEA's programme that helps cannabis farmers move into legal livelihoods.
Marwa also called for tougher court action.
He said some suspects return to drug activities after getting bail or paying fines.
He said a proposed amendment to the NDLEA Act, which has passed second reading in the National Assembly, would bring prison terms of 15 to 25 years and remove the option of a fine.