... System part of efforts to streamline operations, remove bottlenecks, and curb drug scourge — Marwa
In a bid to save lives and continue the campaign on drug prevention, the National adrug Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has flagged-Off an Online Visa Clearance, Drug Integrity Test Application anf Certification Porta, a digital platform to make its drug integrity test and visa clearance processes more seamless, accessible, and transparent, as part of efforts to curb substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
The portal — known as the Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS) — was unveiled at a press conference on Tuesday, 21st October 2025, in Abuja. The NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), represented by the Agency’s Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, described the innovation 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.”
According to Marwa, the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under which the agency has pursued a balanced and uncompromising approach to tackling illicit substance use through both Drug Supply Reduction and Drug Demand Reduction strategies.
He explained that the new online system would replace the cumbersome manual process that previously required physical appearances, lengthy documentation, and verification cycles.
“With the flag-off of the Online Visa Clearance Portal today, we are bringing an end to those bottlenecks. The system delivers automation across all processes and operations associated with the administration of the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance,” Marwa said.
He noted that the digital platform also allows private medical centres to collaborate with the NDLEA as accredited test centres, bringing flexibility and convenience to applicants who can now apply from home, select preferred test locations, and book appointments without visiting NDLEA offices.
The E-Certification and Verification system, he added, would help eliminate certificate falsification while ensuring reliability and transparency through supervisory dashboards across all NDLEA formations nationwide.
Marwa emphasized that the service would also extend to students of tertiary institutions, emphasizing that the goal is prevention, not stigmatization.
“Our rehabilitation and counselling centres are open to those who test positive, ensuring that no one is left without care,” he assured.
He further explained that the new system integrates advanced background checks to maintain the integrity of NDLEA certificates, safeguard Nigeria’s international reputation, and prevent drug syndicates from exploiting legitimate travel channels.
Applicants can now access the service by logging onto www.drugandvisa.ndlea.gov.ng, creating an account, and scheduling appointments at accredited centres. The drug test certificates will be generated instantly upon completion, while visa clearance can be finalized within three days or, at most, a week in special cases.
Marwa reiterated that the Drug Integrity Test is rooted in prevention rather than punishment — serving as an early-warning system to help individuals receive timely intervention and treatment.
“This new digital portal provides a verified, standardized, and secure process for testing and certification. It supports our national drive for demand reduction and fosters healthier communities, safer workplaces, and a more secure national labour force,” he stated.
The NDLEA boss concluded by urging stakeholders and citizens to embrace the new platform, describing it as part of the agency’s broader digital transformation strategy to modernize and secure its operations.
“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 better equipped, stronger, and more resolved than ever before,” Marwa declared.