NDLEA, Kashim Ibrahim University Partner to Introduce Mandatory Student Drug Integrity Tests

The Commander of NDLEA Borno State Command, Commander Narcotics (CN) Usman Sule, led the delegation to the Vice-Chancellor’s office alongside members of his management team.

Speaking during the visit, Commander Usman Sule said the purpose of the visit was to further strengthen the existing synergy and collaboration between Kashim Ibrahim University and the NDLEA, particularly in the areas of campus safety, drug prevention, and awareness among students and staff.

He commended the University Management for the support and cooperation being extended to NDLEA personnel operating within the institution, noting that the relationship between the agency and the university has remained cordial and productive.

Commander Sule stated that his officers regularly provide him with reports on activities within the university community, including policies and proactive measures being implemented in collaboration with the university’s security department to ensure peace, safety, and discipline on campus.

According to him, the NDLEA has been mandated by the Federal Government through the National Drug Control Policy to liaise with educational institutions across Nigeria on issues relating to drug abuse and substance misuse, especially among youths and students.

He explained that institutional safety remains a collective responsibility, which informed the Federal Government’s directive through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) making drug integrity tests mandatory for prospective employees and intending public servants before employment.

Commander Sule further disclosed that the policy is already being implemented in several recruitment exercises, including the Nigerian Police recruitment process, where the NDLEA conducts drug screening tests for applicants as part of the national policy framework.

He added that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have also been encouraged to integrate drug integrity tests in collaboration with the NDLEA to promote a drug-free working environment and healthy society.

The NDLEA Commander also stressed the importance of extending the initiative to tertiary institutions, noting that newly admitted and returning students should undergo drug integrity tests as part of efforts to discourage substance abuse and promote a safer academic environment.

He emphasized that students found struggling with drug-related issues would not be condemned, but rather provided with proper counseling, rehabilitation, and support aimed at helping them become responsible members of society.

Commander Sule appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and the management of Kashim Ibrahim University for the warm reception accorded to his team and expressed optimism for stronger collaboration between the university and the agency.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Professor Babagana Gutti, warmly welcomed the NDLEA Commander and his delegation to the university and commended the agency for its relentless efforts in combating drug abuse and safeguarding Nigerian youths.

Professor Gutti assured the delegation of the university’s maximum support, cooperation, and readiness to continue working closely with the NDLEA in ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for students and staff.

The Vice-Chancellor described drug abuse as one of the major social challenges affecting many young people and educational institutions, stressing that proactive measures such as awareness campaigns, counseling, and drug integrity tests would greatly contribute toward addressing the menace.

He further stated that the university administration places high priority on discipline, moral values, and the overall wellbeing of students, adding that collaboration with relevant security and regulatory agencies remains essential in achieving those objectives.

Professor Gutti expressed satisfaction with the level of automation and professionalism adopted by the NDLEA in conducting drug integrity tests, noting that the transparent and modernized process would encourage credibility and fairness.

He noted that the introduction of drug integrity tests would serve as a strong deterrent to drug abuse, as many students and members of society would avoid taking illicit substances knowing the consequences attached to such actions.

The Vice-Chancellor also emphasized that beyond enforcement, there is a need for continuous sensitization and mentorship for students to help them understand the dangers associated with drug abuse and its negative effects on education, health, security, and future careers.

Professor Gutti reaffirmed KIU’s commitment to partnering with the NDLEA in promoting awareness programmes, preventive measures, and policies that would strengthen campus safety and contribute positively to national development.