The Commander National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Abia State Command, Adelanwa Adetunji, has called on residents of Abia State to embrace the use of Urine Drug Test Kits as a proactive measure to reduce drug demand and prevent substance abuse.
Adetunji who disclosed this on Thursday in Aba the commercial hub of the state expressed concern over the alarming rate of drug abuse in the country.
He cited the 2018 national drug use survey, which revealed that a staggering 143 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 are abusing illicit substances.
The NDLEA Commander emphasised that the Drug Test Kit, launched by Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.) in 2021, is a vital tool in the fight against drug/substance abuse.
He encouraged parents, guardians, and institutions to adopt its use, stressing that it is an effective way to detect early use of substances and provide support for those struggling with addiction.
According to him, several institutions, including the University of Abuja, have already made the test kit a requirement for admission.
He urged other organisations, workplaces, religious places, and communities to follow suit, emphasising the importance of collective action in combating drug abuse.
The commander assured that individuals who test positive will not be punished but will receive help, treatment, rehabilitation, and counselling.
He stressed that early detection is key to preventing drug addiction and that the agency is committed to providing support for those affected.
He said, “The NDLEA has a rehabilitation centre in Abia State to assist those struggling with substance addiction. The centre offers a range of services, including counselling, therapy, and support groups, to help individuals overcome addiction and reintegrate into society.
“We provide sensitization programs for interested groups, including schools, communities, religious places, and workplaces.
“The programs aim to educate individuals about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of seeking help early.
“By adopting the NDLEA Urine Drug Test Kit, Abians can play a crucial role in combating substance abuse and ensuring a safer, healthier community. We urged residents to take action and join the fight against drug abuse, which is a collective action to combat drug abuse by working together, we can create a safer, healthier community for all”.
