Kwara State University (KWASU), located in Malete, has started an important initiative to help reduce drug abuse among its students. This effort is being carried out in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Recently, during a press conference in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, Prof. Mashood Jimba, the deputy vice chancellor of KWASU, shared information about this new drug testing initiative.

On the very first day of the drug commencement test at the university, 500 students were tested for drug use. Prof. Jimba expressed his appreciation to the NDLEA for their support in tackling drug-related issues in schools, mentioning that KWASU is only the second university in Nigeria to start such a program.

The drug testing program was officially launched at a special ceremony organized by the Kwara State government and the NDLEA. Prof. Jimba explained that the main aim of this program is to find students who might be using drugs. If any student tests positive for drug use, they will be offered counseling and support to help them recover, at no cost to them. However, students who need more extensive rehabilitation will have to rely on their families to cover those expenses.

On the first day of testing, Prof. Jimba reported that all 500 students tested were negative for drug use. He emphasized the university’s commitment to tackling drug abuse on campus, saying, “As a school, we are doing our best to address the problem of drug abuse here, especially by gathering intelligence.”

Through this thoughtful approach, KWASU aims not only to identify and assist students struggling with drug abuse but also to create a healthier environment for everyone, so students can focus on their education without the risks that come with substance abuse.