The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a new digital platform designed to facilitate drug integrity testing and the issuance of visa clearance certificates. This advancement aims to simplify the clearance procedure, enhance accessibility, and strengthen the agency’s efforts in combating drug abuse.
In a press release dated Tuesday and signed by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, the agency announced the introduction of the Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS). The portal was officially presented during a press briefing marking the start of the agency’s digital transformation.
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, emphasized that this digital initiative is a strategic move to optimize operational efficiency, eliminate procedural delays, and intensify the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. He highlighted that integrating technology into the agency’s workflow is a critical step toward modernizing and securing its enforcement mechanisms.
“This launch represents a significant evolution in our battle against substance abuse and illegal drug trade-a fusion of enforcement rigor with technological innovation,” Marwa stated.
He further explained that the adoption of this technology underscores NDLEA’s dedication to harnessing digital tools to disrupt drug trafficking networks and reduce substance abuse. The digital system is a cornerstone of the agency’s commitment to maintaining world-class, secure, and efficient processes.
Marwa also linked this initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes digital transformation and operational efficiency across government agencies. He pointed out that the agency’s comprehensive approach targets two main pillars: reducing the supply of illicit drugs and curbing demand.
“Winning the war against drug abuse is essential for protecting our youth, families, and the nation’s future. With technology as our partner, we are more capable, resilient, and determined than ever,” he added.
Historically, the NDLEA’s visa clearance certificate process has been plagued by delays due to manual documentation, mandatory physical appearances, and prolonged verification procedures. This certificate is a prerequisite for travel to several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Brazil, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Russia.
The introduction of the online visa clearance portal promises to resolve these inefficiencies by automating the entire workflow related to drug integrity testing and visa clearance issuance.
Moreover, the drug integrity testing service will be expanded to include students in tertiary institutions nationwide, aiming to significantly reduce drug demand among young people. Marwa assured that this initiative will be conducted sensitively, avoiding any stigmatization, with positive cases receiving support through the agency’s rehabilitation and counseling programs.
Related Read: FRSC launches contactless driver’s license system to clear backlog by November.
Functionality of the Portal
The newly introduced online platform enables individuals, organizations, and institutions to effortlessly apply for drug integrity tests. The system guarantees a standardized, secure, and verified process for testing and certificate issuance.
NDLEA highlighted that the portal incorporates advanced background verification measures, ensuring the certificates issued are reliable security documents that prevent exploitation by drug trafficking networks through legitimate travel channels.
“The E-Certification and Verification system eradicates counterfeit drug and visa clearance certificates, enhancing transparency and accountability through supervisory dashboards accessible at all command levels and headquarters,” Marwa explained.
The agency has also collaborated with accredited private medical centers, which are integrated into the platform to conduct the Drug Integrity Tests.
Application Procedure
Applicants can conveniently apply for the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance from their homes, selecting any preferred testing center.
The system allows users to schedule appointments at times that suit both the applicant and NDLEA officers, eliminating the need for long waits at agency offices.
Steps to Apply:
Step 1: Access the official portal via your internet browser.
Step 2: Register an account by providing your personal information and complete the verification process.
Step 3: Submit your application and book an appointment at any available testing center for either the Drug Integrity Test or Visa Clearance.
Step 4: Attend the scheduled appointment where the NDLEA officer will conduct the test and record the results. Certificates are issued immediately upon completion.
NDLEA assures that visa clearance certificates are typically processed within three days, with a maximum turnaround time of one week under exceptional circumstances.