…system to streamline operations, enhance transparency and curb drug scourge, says Marwa
By Nkechi Eze
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken another bold step in its war against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking with the official launch of a digital platform designed to automate and streamline its Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance processes.
In an official statement signed by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA announced that the new system known as the Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS) was unveiled during a press conference held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retired), described the launch as a “paradigm shift” in the nation’s anti-drug campaign. Represented by the agency’s Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, Marwa said the digitization drive aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the government’s vision of a transparent, technology-driven public service.
“This symbolic launch signifies a paradigm shift in our fight against the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, a moment where enforcement meets efficiency, and commitment merges with cutting-edge technology,” he declared.
He explained that for years, the process of obtaining an NDLEA Visa Clearance Certificate required by some source and transit countries, was hindered by cumbersome manual procedures involving physical appearances, paper documentation, and lengthy verification cycles. These bottlenecks, according to him, often created room for human interference and delays.
“With the flag-off of the Online Visa Clearance Portal today, we are bringing an end to those bottlenecks,” Marwa said. “The system delivers automation across all processes and operations associated with the administration of the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance with interfaces for effective collaboration with partner agencies.”
He noted that the agency has also made provision for private medical centres to partner with the NDLEA as accredited centres for conducting the Drug Integrity Test. The digitized platform, he said, offers efficiency, flexibility, and convenience, enabling applicants to complete their applications from home, select their preferred test location, and schedule appointments at their convenience without the need to queue at NDLEA offices.
“With the E-Certification and Verification system, it also eliminates drug and visa clearance certificate falsifications and establishes the reliability and transparency of the process with supervisory dashboards across our commands, formations, and headquarters,” he explained.
Marwa added that the new system extends its benefits to students of tertiary institutions and other citizens, providing a non-stigmatizing, preventive approach that promotes early intervention. “Our rehabilitation and counselling centres remain open for those who test positive to ensure that no one is left without care,” he assured.
Highlighting the security benefits of the platform, Marwa said the portal integrates sophisticated background check protocols to ensure that the certificate remains a credible security instrument safeguarding Nigeria’s international reputation while preventing drug syndicates from exploiting legitimate travel channels.
“All applicants need to do is log on to the portal (www.drugandvisa.ndlea.gov.ng), create an account, and apply from anywhere,” he said. “They can book appointments at any available centre for either the Drug Integrity Test or Visa Clearance. The system generates test certificates on the spot once the desk officer completes the process, while Visa Clearance can now be completed within three days, or at most a week in special circumstances.”
The NDLEA boss emphasized that the agency’s primary mission remains the protection of lives, hence its emphasis on prevention rather than punishment. He explained that the Drug Integrity Test serves as an early-warning system, offering individuals the opportunity for counselling and treatment before substance dependence develops.
“This new digital portal allows institutions, organizations, and individuals, including parents and prospective couples to apply for drug integrity tests seamlessly,” Marwa stated. “It provides a verified, standardized, and secure process for testing and certification. It is a non-judgmental pathway designed to support our national drive for drug demand reduction, fostering healthier communities, safer workplaces, and a more secure national labour force.”
He described the platform as a reflection of NDLEA’s commitment to leveraging technology in addressing the evolving challenges of drug trafficking and abuse, noting that the digitization of its operations would ensure modern, transparent, and efficient service delivery.
“This initiative is proof that the NDLEA is committed to leveraging the power of technology to combat the evolving complexities of drug trafficking and abuse,” Marwa said. “It is part of a broader strategy to digitize all our operations, ensuring our processes are modern, secure, and world-class. The war against drug abuse is one we must win for the sake of our youth, our families, and the future of our nation. With technology as our ally, we are better equipped, stronger, and more resolved than ever before.”
He called on all stakeholders including government agencies, private institutions, and citizens to embrace the new digital system and take advantage of its features, stressing that the success of the innovation depends on collective responsibility.
“The success of this initiative is a shared responsibility,” Marwa concluded. “Together, we can build a drug-free Nigeria anchored on transparency, innovation, and integrity.”
