Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has called on parents to equip their homes with drug testing kits.
He emphasized that early identification of drug use among children is crucial for timely intervention and effective management.
Highlighting the growing threat of substance abuse, Marwa described it as a serious social issue that jeopardizes the health, welfare, and future prospects of the youth.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Competition 2025, where he served as the special guest of honour, Brig.-Gen. Marwa (rtd) stressed the gravity of the problem.
“Drug addiction crushes dreams, extinguishes hope, and steals the promising futures that young people deserve. This is not merely a personal tragedy but a setback for the entire nation,” he remarked.
He added, “Parents, guardians, and educators bear a collective duty to steer our children towards positive paths-encouraging their talents, supporting their ambitions, and shielding them from the harmful influence of drugs. Staying attentive and recognizing early warning signs is essential.”
“I strongly advocate for families to take preventive measures, including the use of drug test kits at home. Detecting drug use at an early stage allows for intervention before addiction takes hold,” he advised.
Marwa also urged educational institutions to create drug-free clubs where none currently exist, reinforcing the role of schools in combating substance abuse.
“The NDLEA is committed to partnering with schools in this mission to foster a healthier, safer society,” he affirmed.
He praised DEPOWA for initiating the sports-centered drug prevention campaign themed “Live Free, Stay Clean.”
“This initiative highlights the importance of early awareness. I commend DEPOWA’s foresight. Sports should embody values like discipline, dedication, and honesty-not be tainted by shortcuts such as performance-enhancing drugs,” he noted.
Marwa encouraged students to channel their energy into sports as a constructive way to build resilience and maintain a drug-free lifestyle.
In her address, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of DEPOWA, explained that this year’s competition aims to empower secondary school students to avoid drugs through active participation in sports, educational programs, and positive lifestyle choices.
She expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of substance abuse among Nigerian teenagers, particularly the easy availability of cannabis, codeine, inhalants, and other psychoactive substances.
“Factors such as peer influence, misinformation, and economic hardships often push young people toward experimenting with drugs. It is our collective responsibility to protect and guide them safely through adolescence,” Mrs. Musa stated.
She highlighted the critical role of sports in youth development, saying, “Engagement in sports teaches teamwork, leadership, perseverance, resilience, and self-control. These attributes help young people handle challenges, regulate emotions, and make wise decisions, while also offering a healthy way to relieve stress and anxiety.”
“As we encourage their involvement in sports, it is equally important to educate them about the risks associated with drug use,” she concluded.
