“Early detection makes treatment far more effective” — Marwa says policy is protective, not punitive
Felix Mbata, Lagos state
The National Association of Nigerian Students has thrown its weight behind the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s offensive against substance abuse, and reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda ahead of 2027.
The commitment came Tuesday 21st April 2026 when NANS leadership, led by National President Comrade Sola Oladoja, paid a courtesy visit to NDLEA Chairman/CEO Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) at the Agency’s Abuja headquarters.
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Oladoja commended Marwa for “dynamic leadership and the Agency’s relentless successes against drug cartels.” He singled out the War Against Drug Abuse social advocacy initiative, saying it “has been instrumental in raising awareness across tertiary institutions.”
Reaffirming NANS’ support for NDLEA and the Renewed Hope Agenda, Oladoja said student backing for the Tinubu administration “is rooted in tangible pro-youth achievements.” He listed the student loans scheme, resolution of industrial strikes in tertiary institutions, and youth empowerment programmes.
MARWA: ‘YOUR SUPPORT GLADDENS MY HEART’
Responding, Marwa said his pride in the Nigerian student body is long-standing. “My relationship with them has remained strong due to their consistent support across my various national assignments.”
“As a critical sector of the Nigerian polity, what you said about your appreciation of the gains of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and your commitment to support his re-election in 2027 gladdens my heart,” Marwa told the delegation.
DRUG INTEGRITY TEST: ‘PROTECTIVE, NOT PUNITIVE’
On campus drug prevalence, Marwa called for a united front. “We need to work with you on our efforts to rid our campuses of drug abuse because of the consequences to students’ health, their aspirations, and even their families, as well as the society at large.”
Addressing the Federal Government’s Drug Integrity Test Policy for students, the NDLEA boss stressed intent: “The measure is strictly protective rather than punitive. The policy is designed in the best interest of the youth, as early detection of drug use makes treatment and rehabilitation far more effective.”
CONCLUSION: DEEPER PARTNERSHIP ON CAMPUS WAR
The visit ended with a mutual commitment to deepen NDLEA-NANS partnership in the crusade against substance abuse on Nigerian campuses.
Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Wednesday 22nd April 2026