NDLEA, UBTH, STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR ENHANCED ALCOHOL , DRUG TESTING

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 NDLEA, UBTH,  STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR ENHANCED ALCOHOL , DRUG TESTING





 


The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and other key stakeholders, has underscored the critical need for alcohol and substance abuse screening. 


During the second Special Stakeholders Workshop of the hospital, Commander of Narcotics, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, Edo State Commander highlighted the urgent necessity of such measures, stressing that addressing substance abuse is vital for improving safety in both workplace and public settings.


 


The workshop was officially declared open by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, represented by the  Commissioner for Security and Safety, Festus Ebea. 


Among them ,included prominent figures from law enforcement, the judiciary, education, and healthcare sectors, who collectively emphasized that substance abuse extends beyond youth culture into offices, homes, and academic institutions.


Dr. Ofoyeju remarked, “Screening is not punishment but prevention and protection.” He referenced the innovative drug integrity test introduced by Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) , as a proactive strategy in addressing drug use disorders. He explained that this scientific and efficient process is essential for the timely identification and intervention of substance abuse issues.

The workshop also explored various forms of substance screening including pre-employment, random, and reasonable suspicion testing each serving a distinct function in preserving a drug-free work environment. 

He further examined the broader societal consequences of substance abuse, ranging from public health burdens to increased risks of accidents and criminal activity.


Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, Chief Medical Director of UBTH, reinforced the importance of preemptive action noting that “Drug testing is not merely about identifying a substance; it’s about identifying a risk before it leads to tragedy.”


 She emphasized the need to foster a safe and supportive environment for individuals dealing with substance-related issues.


The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Monday Agbonika, delivered a presentation titled “The Role of the Police in Combating Insecurity via Policies on Screening for Alcohol and Substance Abuse in Our Society.” M


 Chief Magistrate Tegwolo Okungbowa of the Delta State Judiciary spoke on “The Role of the Judiciary in Accepting Alcohol and Drug Screening Test Results in the Prosecution of Offenders Involved in Alcohol and Substance Abuse.”



Additionally, Professor Uwadiae Enobakhare, a Consultant in the Mental Health Department of UBTH, addressed the topic “Medical Implications of Alcohol Abuse Complications.” 


The interactive session concluded with participants expressing strong approval of the newly introduced screening center being the first in the geopolitical zone.

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