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To enhance the integrity of Nigeria’s police recruitment, the Police Service Commission has reached out to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for assistance in conducting drug integrity tests on prospective police candidates.
This request was made during a courtesy call on Tuesday by PSC Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Hashimu Argungu, to Brigadier General Mohamed Marwa (retd.), Chairman and Chief Executive of the NDLEA, at the agency's headquarters in Abuja.
Argungu highlighted the importance of ensuring that individuals entering police training institutions are free from drugs and mentally fit, warning that recruiting drug-dependent individuals could pose serious risks to national security.
"We adhere to due process and procedures in all our undertakings, including recruitment. If unsuitable candidates are allowed into the system from the outset, it could lead to dangerous outcomes.
We cannot risk placing weapons in the hands of those who are already dependent on illegal substances," Argungu stated.
He further mentioned that the PSC plans to decentralize the screening process nationwide, and given the NDLEA's extensive presence nationwide, their partnership would be crucial in identifying and disqualifying unsuitable applicants.
"This is the purpose of our visit today — to formally seek your assistance and collaboration. We appreciate the support we have already received and look forward to even closer cooperation," he added.
In response, Marwa praised the initiative and assured the PSC of the NDLEA's full collaboration. He recognized that substance abuse is a prevalent issue that contributes to insecurity in various sectors.
"We are pleased to partner with you on this. Our commands throughout the country are fully outfitted with high-quality drug testing kits capable of detecting even the most advanced forms of cheating in urine sample analyses," Marwa expressed.
He reiterated the agency's commitment to allocating both personnel and resources to assist the PSC in ensuring that only qualified, accountable, and drug-free individuals are recruited into the police force.
"This initiative is not only timely but also essential for national security. You can rely on the NDLEA’s complete support," Marwa affirmed.
