The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a new online portal to digitize and streamline its Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance processes, with plans to extend the service to students of tertiary institutions across the country.
The innovation, known as the Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS), was unveiled on Tuesday in Abuja by the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd).
Marwa, represented by the Agency’s Secretary, Mr. Shadrach Haruna, said the new system is part of efforts to strengthen the war against drug abuse and trafficking while enhancing transparency and service delivery through technology.
He said the platform will also be integrated into tertiary institutions as part of NDLEA’s preventive strategy to detect and address substance abuse among students early.
“The extension of this service to students of tertiary institutions and other categories of citizens is aimed at promoting drug demand reduction nationwide without stigmatizing anyone,” Marwa stated.
He explained that the online portal eliminates human interference and delays that characterized the manual system of obtaining NDLEA Visa Clearance Certificates — a process required by some source and transit countries.
“For years, applicants had to appear physically and go through long documentation and verification cycles. The new system automates all processes, bringing transparency, speed, and convenience,” he added.
According to Marwa, the system also allows private medical centres to register as accredited partners for conducting drug integrity tests, ensuring nationwide accessibility.
He said applicants can now visit http://www.drugandvisa.ndlea.gov.ng, create an account, and apply for either a drug integrity test or visa clearance certificate from anywhere, choosing a convenient date and location for their appointment.
“With the E-Certification and Verification system, falsification of drug and visa clearance certificates is eliminated. It ensures credibility and supervisory oversight across NDLEA commands and formations,” he said.
The NDLEA boss added that the initiative will serve as a preventive and rehabilitative mechanism by identifying individuals experimenting with substances early and connecting them to appropriate intervention and counselling services.
“This is an early-warning and non-judgmental system that promotes healthier communities, safer workplaces, and a secure labour force. It aligns with our national campaign for demand reduction and our War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative,” Marwa explained.
He also noted that the portal integrates background check protocols to protect Nigeria’s international image and prevent criminal networks from exploiting legitimate travel channels.
“Visa clearance processing will now be completed within three to seven days, depending on the case, thereby ensuring efficiency and accountability,” he said.
Marwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to leveraging technology to modernize its operations and urged all stakeholders — including educational institutions, parents, and organizations — to adopt and promote the new platform.
“The war against drug abuse is one we must win for the sake of our youth and the future of our nation. With technology as our ally, we are stronger and better equipped,” he said.
