NDLEA Kwara State Commander, Hajia Fatima Abiola-Popoola, has proposed mandatory drug tests for newly admitted university students. She explained that this measure would “Serve as a preventive measure while offering early intervention and counselling for those already using drugs to prevent them from becoming problematic users”. During a radio programme in Ilorin, Abiola-Popoola expressed concern over Nigeria’s rising drug user numbers, particularly among females, warning of serious risks to families and society.
Citing a 2018 survey, she noted, “A 2018 survey shows that 14.3 million people were using drugs in Nigeria. One out of 7 persons in Nigeria is a drug user and one out of 4 drug users is a woman.” Abiola-Popoola emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “This shows that the society is in trouble because a woman is the administrator of the home.” The proposed mandatory drug tests aim to address this growing issue and provide support for those already struggling with drug use.
