The Nationwide Drug Regulation Enforcement Company (NDLEA) has intensified its marketing campaign in opposition to drug abuse in Rivers State, proposing obligatory drug integrity checks in colleges and inside the Nationwide Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a part of measures to curb the rising menace amongst younger individuals.
The State Commander of the NDLEA, CN Bature Dawa, made the decision throughout a courtesy go to to the Rivers State Authorities in Port Harcourt, the place he highlighted the pressing want for preventive methods concentrating on youths, who’re thought of most weak to substance abuse.
Dawa mentioned the proposed drug testing coverage would function each a deterrent and an early detection mechanism, serving to to determine and rehabilitate customers earlier than dependancy deepens.
He revealed that the company has arrested 39 suspects within the state between December 2025 and March 2026, with 16 recent circumstances at present beneath investigation.
In keeping with him, the NDLEA has strengthened operations by means of its Drug Demand Discount and Drug Provide Management items to dismantle drug networks and produce offenders to justice.
The NDLEA boss additionally urged mother and father and guardians to be extra vigilant, stressing that household monitoring performs a essential position in stopping drug abuse.
He additional referred to as on lodge house owners and managers to make sure their services will not be used as secure havens for illicit drug actions.
Responding, the Rivers State Authorities counseled the NDLEA and different federal businesses for his or her collaboration in sustaining safety and social order within the state.
The Secretary to the State Authorities, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, who spoke on behalf of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, and improvement.
He emphasised that respect for the rule of legislation stays key to attaining sustainable development, urging residents—notably younger individuals—to avoid medication, crime, and reckless behaviour.
“Our Governor is dedicated to peace, progress and prosperity in Rivers State. We encourage all residents to stay law-abiding and assist efforts geared toward securing our communities,” Wokoma acknowledged.
In a associated improvement, the Sector Commander of the Federal Highway Security Corps (FRSC), CC Inyang Umoh, additionally paid a courtesy go to, throughout which the state authorities reiterated the necessity for strict adherence to street security laws.
Wokoma referred to as on motorists to drive responsibly and take into account different street customers, whereas the FRSC commander expressed appreciation to the state authorities for its continued assist.
The renewed push for drug testing in colleges and the NYSC underscores rising concern amongst authorities over the influence of substance abuse on youth improvement and public security in Rivers State.