NDLEA calls for drug test for drivers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has restated the need for a robust collaboration with relevant agencies of government like the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and state governments in subjecting drivers to drug test in the country.
The essence of the test is said to be aimed at preventing avoidable road accidents leading to loss of lives due to intoxication and effects of drugs.
Speaking at the just concluded NDLEA Commanders’ Conference concluded in Jos, Plateau State at the weekend , the Chairman Chief Executive of the Agency Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (retd) who is the convener of the conference reiterated the goals of the Agency to include safer and healthier society, reduced spread of drug related diseases, low crime rate, balanced approach between law enforcement and treatment as well as recovery of proceeds of drug crimes.

At the conference which was titled ‘Developing the Agency’s Strategies for Effective Implementation of Government’s Drug Law Policy’ Abdallah said, “new strategies are needed to deepen engagement with stakeholders in line with the principle of collective responsibility in drug control. the NDLEA will continue to identify areas of partnership with relevant Agencies, governments at all levels and other collaborators for optimum performance in the implementation of drug law policies. ”

The director of Technical Services of the NDLEA, Oloruntoba Femi Esq in his presentation titled ‘Directional Focus of NDLEA’s Strategies for Effective Implementation of the Federal Government Drug Law,’ stressed that drug law enforcement must be a top priority, agenda for government at all levels because drug is traceable to the root cause of other crimes.

At the end of the conference which had the Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau state as the chief host and the special guest of honour, Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura of Nassarawa state, the commanders of the agency unanimously resolved that it is imperative to create a stronger institution that will outlive its leaders.
Other submissions were improved inter-agency collaboration, sustained advocacy, professionalization of the workforce, monitoring and evaluation of strategies as well as continued monitoring and research on drugs.