By Ameh Gabriel
NDLEA Chairman Marwa pledges full collaboration
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Hashimu Argungu, has sought the collaboration of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting drug integrity tests for prospective police recruits.
This was contained in a statement signed by Femi Babafemi Director, Media & Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025
According to the statement, Argungu made the request on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, when he led a delegation of PSC management on a courtesy visit to NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), at the Agency’s national headquarters in Abuja.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that only candidates with sound mental and physical health are admitted into police training institutions across the country.
“We follow due process and strict procedures in everything we do to ensure the best results. If recruitment is compromised and individuals with substance abuse issues are allowed into the system, the outcome will be disastrous,” Argungu said.
He noted that the PSC plans to decentralize the screening exercise across all states of the federation and is counting on the presence of NDLEA commands nationwide to support in identifying drug-dependent candidates.
“We cannot, in good conscience, place arms in the hands of individuals battling drug addiction. It is dangerous to national security. That is why we are here to seek your continued cooperation and technical support,” he added.
In his response, NDLEA boss Gen. Marwa assured the PSC of the Agency’s readiness to support the initiative, noting that drug abuse is a national security threat requiring a unified and holistic response.
“We commend the PSC for prioritizing integrity in recruitment. Drug testing is a critical step in addressing the root of many security issues. Our offices nationwide are fully equipped with high-quality testing kits designed to detect even the most concealed forms of substance abuse. We’re happy to collaborate with you on this,” Marwa assured.
The partnership aims to enhance the integrity and professionalism of the Nigerian Police Force by ensuring that only drug-free candidates are admitted into training programs.
