FIC Report (Edo State) – The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has inaugurated a dedicated drug testing centre in Benin City, Edo State, signaling a concerted effort by health authorities and security agencies to curb the rising tide of alcohol and substance abuse. The initiative aims to facilitate early detection, provide effective counseling, and offer appropriate treatment to individuals affected by substance misuse.
During a Stakeholders’ Workshop held at Nurses House UBTH on Thursday 20th August, 2026, featured the Official unveiling of the facility, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, announced that UBTH is the first teaching hospital in Nigeria’s South-South region to establish such a specialized centre. The CMD described the move as a significant step forward in addressing the health, social, and economic challenges posed by substance abuse in the area.
Professor Ize-Iyamu emphasized that the Centre is equipped to deliver reliable screening services for a broad spectrum of substances, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, cannabis, alcohol, fentanyl, methadone, tramadol, and barbiturates. She highlighted the importance of early intervention, noting that substance misuse can lead to serious medical complications such as impaired judgment, violence, family breakdown, and reduced productivity.
Representing Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Festus O. Ebea, expressed confidence that the new facility will enhance drug testing, counseling, and treatment services. He underscored the link between illicit drug use and criminal activities such as reckless driving, armed robbery, and violence, urging individuals battling substance dependence to seek help and rehabilitation. He also called for increased collaboration among UBTH, law enforcement agencies, and relevant institutions to effectively combat substance abuse.
Professor Eddy Ehikhamenor, Director of the Forensics and DNA Centre at the University of Benin, linked the surge in domestic violence to substance misuse and encouraged the public to utilize the testing services without fear of stigma.
Earlier, Prof. Enobakhare of UBTH’s Mental Health Department warned that alcohol and drug abuse could trigger immediate medical emergencies and long-term health issues, including organ damage, cancers, and mental health deterioration.
In addition to medical implications, substance Abuse was noted to contribute to domestic conflicts, financial hardship, and social instability. Prof. Enobakhare advocated for increased Public awareness and early intervention strategies, emphasizing that efforts should extend beyond hospitals into communities, workplaces, and educational institutions.
The enforcement aspect of the initiative was highlighted by Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, an Enforcement Expert from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). He stressed the importance of screening as a preventive tool in Workplaces, Schools, and Communities. Edo State’s strategic position as a transit route and consumption hub for illicit drugs was also acknowledged.
Participants at the workshop explored various screening methods, including pre-employment, random, post-incident, and suspicion-based testing. They discussed different detection windows based on sample types such as breath, saliva, blood, sweat, and hair, emphasizing the importance of early detection in high-risk groups like adolescents, young adults, and professionals in safety-sensitive roles.
The event also featured calls for stronger Inter-Agency collaboration among Law Enforcement, Health Institutions, and Academia to sustain the fight against substance Abuse.
In a related development, AIG Monday Agbonika, the Assistant Inspector Of Police, Zone 5 of the Nigeria Police, stressed that a balanced approach combining enforcement, prevention, and treatment was essential. He called for stronger collaboration among Law Enforcement, health Agencies and institutions to sustain the fight against Drug dependency
In conclusion, Stakeholders agreed that establishing clear Drug and Alcohol Policies across Organizations, investing in rehabilitation Services, and increasing Community awareness are crucial steps toward reducing substance-related problems. The workshop served as a platform for fostering partnerships and promoting evidence-based strategies to foster safer Communities, Workplaces, and Institutions.
Participants included notable figures such as Hon. Festus O. Ebea, Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, Mrs. Tegwolo Okungbowa, and AIG Monday Agbonika, among others. The event underscores a collective commitment to tackling the complex challenge of Alcohol and substance Abuse in Edo State and beyond.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
Chief Info. and Public Relations Officer, FIC Benin.
August 21st, 2026
