The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
has launched a new online portal designed to digitize its Drug Integrity
Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS) — a move the agency says
marks a major milestone in its efforts to modernize operations and enhance
transparency.
The platform was officially unveiled on Tuesday in
Abuja during a press conference to flag off the initiative.
Speaking at the event, NDLEA Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), described the
development as “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.”
Marwa, represented by the Agency’s Secretary, Shadrach
Haruna, noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s
Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes digital innovation and institutional
reform. He said the NDLEA has maintained a firm yet balanced approach to drug
control, focusing on Drug Supply Reduction and Drug Demand Reduction.
Automation to Replace Manual Processes
For years, applicants for NDLEA’s Visa Clearance
Certificates—required by several source and transit countries—have had to
endure tedious manual procedures involving physical visits, paperwork, and long
verification delays.
“With the launch of the Online Visa Clearance Portal,
we are eliminating those bottlenecks,” Marwa stated, in a message conveyed by
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi.
He explained that the new DITViCAS system automates
the entire process of Drug Integrity Testing and Visa Clearance, integrating
features for collaboration with partner agencies and private medical centres
accredited by the NDLEA.
Applicants can now log on to www.drugandvisa.ndlea.gov.ng,
create an account, and apply for a Drug Integrity Test or Visa Clearance
online. They can also book an appointment at their preferred location and
receive their certificates electronically, with the visa clearance process
completed within three to seven days.
Fighting Forgery and Promoting
Transparency
Marwa said the E-Certification and Verification
system eliminates the risk of forged documents by creating a secure,
traceable, and verifiable record of each test and certificate issued.
Supervisory dashboards have been provided across NDLEA commands to ensure
consistent monitoring and accountability.
He added that the system also extends to students
of tertiary institutions as part of the agency’s strategy to reduce drug
demand and promote prevention without stigmatization.
“Our rehabilitation and counselling centres remain
open to anyone who tests positive, ensuring that no one is left without care,”
he said.
Technology as a Weapon in Drug War
The NDLEA boss emphasized that the portal integrates
sophisticated background checks to safeguard Nigeria’s international reputation
and prevent criminal syndicates from exploiting legitimate travel channels.
“This initiative is a commitment to stress-free,
integrity-driven public service delivery,” Marwa said.
He described the Drug Integrity Test as an
early-warning tool designed to help individuals who may be experimenting with
substances, offering them opportunities for intervention and treatment before
addiction sets in.
The portal, he noted, enables institutions,
organizations, and individuals—including parents and prospective couples—to
apply for drug integrity tests seamlessly, ensuring a verified,
standardized, and secure process.
“This is the future of our War Against Drug Abuse
(WADA) campaign—proactive, compassionate, and data-driven,” Marwa declared.
A Step Toward a Digital Future
Marwa concluded by reaffirming NDLEA’s commitment to
leveraging technology as a strategic tool in combating drug abuse and
trafficking.
“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 stronger and better equipped than ever before.”
He urged all stakeholders, institutions, and citizens
to embrace and utilize the new platform, stressing that its success depends on shared
responsibility.
Comments:
Leave a Reply