UBTH Launches Drug Testing Centre to Combat Substance Abuse

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin City, Edo State, has unveiled a drug testing centre aimed at combating the rising incidence of substance abuse in the South-South region. The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, announced the opening on Thursday during a stakeholders’ workshop focused on screening for alcohol and substance abuse.

UBTH is the first teaching hospital in the South-South geopolitical zone to establish such a facility. Prof. Ize-Iyamu described the centre as a significant step towards prevention, early intervention, and improved health outcomes, highlighting the detrimental effects of substance abuse on individuals and communities.

The centre will screen for various substances, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, marijuana/cannabis, ethanol, fentanyl, methadone, tramadol, and barbiturates. Prof. Eddy Ehikhamenor, Director of the Forensics and DNA Centre at the University of Benin, linked increasing domestic violence cases to substance abuse and called for collaboration among relevant agencies to tackle this growing issue.