ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a new digital platform aimed at streamlining the process of obtaining drug integrity tests and visa clearance certificates. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve transparency, accessibility and efficiency in the agency’s operations.
The visa clearance certificate issued by NDLEA is mandatory for Nigerians traveling to countries identified as major drug source or transit nations. The new system is expected to reduce delays and eliminate manual bottlenecks in the certification process.
The platform, known as the Drug Integrity Test and Visa E-Administration System (DITViCAS), was unveiled Tuesday in Abuja by NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retired), who described it as “a paradigm shift in our fight against the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.” Marwa was represented by the agency’s secretary, Shadrach Haruna.
Haruna said the online system aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects NDLEA’s dual approach to drug control, focusing on both supply and demand reduction. He noted that the previous manual process was prone to delays, human interference and verification challenges.
“With the flag-off of the Online Visa Clearance Portal today, we are bringing an end to those bottlenecks,” Marwa said. “The system delivers automation across all processes and operations associated with the administration of the Drug Integrity Test and Visa Clearance, with interfaces for effective collaboration with partner agencies.”
Applicants can now log on to the NDLEA website to create accounts, book appointments and complete their applications without visiting NDLEA offices. Drug test certificates will be generated instantly, while visa clearance certificates will be issued within three days—or up to one week in special cases.
The system includes e-certification and verification features to prevent document falsification and strengthen Nigeria’s international credibility. Supervisory dashboards will enable real-time monitoring across NDLEA commands nationwide.
Beyond visa applicants, the agency said the platform will also serve students, corporate organizations, and individuals—including parents and prospective couples—seeking drug integrity tests. Marwa emphasized that the initiative is preventive, not punitive, offering a “non-judgmental pathway” to early intervention and rehabilitation.
