The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a new digital platform designed to facilitate drug integrity testing and the issuance of visa clearance certificates. This advancement aims to simplify the clearance procedure, making it more efficient and accessible, while strengthening the agency’s efforts to combat drug abuse.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, the portal was introduced during a press briefing marking the commencement of the Agency’s Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS) digital transformation.
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, emphasized that this digital platform is a strategic move to optimize operational workflows, eliminate delays, and intensify the fight against drug-related crimes. He highlighted that integrating technology into the agency’s processes is a critical step toward enhancing the crackdown on substance abuse and illegal drug trafficking within Nigeria.
“This launch represents a significant evolution in our battle against drug abuse and trafficking, where enforcement efficiency is elevated through innovative technology and unwavering dedication,” Marwa stated.
He further explained that the initiative reflects NDLEA’s commitment to harnessing technological advancements to modernize, secure, and elevate its operational standards to global best practices.
Marwa also linked the digital initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes the digitalization of government services and operational efficiency. He underscored that the agency’s uncompromising stance on drug control targets two main pillars: reducing drug supply and curbing drug demand.
“Winning the fight against drug abuse is essential for the wellbeing of our youth, families, and the nation’s future. With technology as a key ally, we are more capable, resilient, and determined than ever,” he added.
Historically, the NDLEA’s visa clearance certificate process has been plagued by delays due to manual documentation, mandatory physical appearances, and prolonged verification procedures. This certificate is a prerequisite for travel to several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Brazil, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Russia.
The introduction of the online visa clearance portal promises to resolve these inefficiencies by automating all stages of the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance processes, thereby enhancing speed and reliability.
Moreover, the drug integrity testing service will be expanded to include students in higher education institutions nationwide, aiming to significantly reduce drug demand among young people. Marwa assured that this initiative will be conducted sensitively to avoid stigmatization, with positive cases receiving support through the agency’s rehabilitation and counseling programs.
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Operational Overview
The newly launched portal enables individuals, organizations, and institutions to effortlessly request drug integrity tests. Applicants benefit from a standardized, secure, and verified procedure for both testing and certificate issuance.
NDLEA highlighted that the platform incorporates advanced background verification mechanisms, ensuring the certificates issued are reliable security documents that prevent exploitation by drug trafficking networks through legitimate travel routes.
“The E-Certification and Verification system eradicates counterfeit drug and visa clearance certificates, promoting transparency and accountability through supervisory dashboards accessible at all command levels and headquarters,” Marwa explained.
Additionally, the agency has collaborated with accredited private medical facilities, which are integrated into the platform to conduct the Drug Integrity Tests.
Application Procedure
Applicants can conveniently apply for the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance from any location, selecting their preferred testing center.
The system allows users to schedule appointments at times that suit both the applicant and NDLEA officers, eliminating the need for long waits at agency offices.
Steps to Apply:
Step 1: Access the portal via your internet browser.
Step 2: Register an account by providing accurate personal information and complete the verification process.
Step 3: Submit your application and book an appointment at any accredited center for either the Drug Integrity Test or Visa Clearance.
Step 4: Attend the scheduled appointment at the chosen center.
At the appointment, an NDLEA officer will conduct the test and record the results. Certificates are generated instantly through the system.
NDLEA assures that visa clearance certificates are typically processed within three days, with a maximum turnaround of one week under exceptional circumstances.
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