The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed support for ongoing efforts by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.

The student leaders, led by their National President, Comrade Sola Oladoja, made the commitment during a courtesy visit to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

During the visit, Oladoja commended Marwa for his leadership and the agency’s operations against drug cartels. He also highlighted the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy initiative, which he said has increased awareness across tertiary institutions.

Oladoja reaffirmed the association’s backing for NDLEA and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, stating that the support is based on policies affecting young people. He listed student loans, the resolution of industrial disputes in tertiary institutions and youth empowerment programmes among such measures.

In his response, Marwa said he maintains a longstanding relationship with Nigerian students, citing their support during his previous public service roles.

According to him, “As a critical sector of the Nigerian polity, what you said about your appreciation of the gains of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and your commitment to support his re-election in 2027 gladdens my heart.”

He stressed the need for collaboration to address drug use in schools.

“We need to work with you on our efforts to rid our campuses of drug abuse because of the consequences to students’ health, their aspirations, and even their families, as well as the society at large,” Marwa added.

Speaking on the Federal Government Drug Integrity Test Policy for students, Marwa said the measure is preventive and aimed at early detection to support treatment and rehabilitation.

The visit ended with both organisations agreeing to strengthen cooperation in efforts to curb substance abuse on campuses.