By Kabiru Abdulrauf
In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against drug abuse and addiction, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced plans to deploy corps members with relevant qualifications to counselling and rehabilitation centres operated by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) across the country.
The decision followed a request by NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa, during a courtesy visit by NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja. Marwa revealed that the NDLEA currently operates rehab centres in 30 states and aims to expand that reach to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
According to a statement shared on NYSC’s official Facebook page, Marwa proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two agencies to clearly define their collaborative framework and enhance operational synergy.
“We believe corps members with the right background in psychology, social work, or public health can make a real difference in our rehabilitation efforts,” said Marwa, who also commended Nafiu’s leadership and the legacy of excellence he is building at NYSC.
Brigadier General Nafiu, in response, praised Marwa’s enduring contributions to national development—from his impactful tenure as Lagos State Governor to his current reforms at the NDLEA—and expressed NYSC’s full commitment to the partnership.
The initiative marks a significant step toward addressing the growing substance abuse crisis in Nigeria while creating meaningful service opportunities for corps members. By aligning youth service with national priorities, both agencies aim to build a healthier, safer, and more rehabilitative society.
