UBTH Launches First Drug Testing Centre in South-South

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) inaugurated the first drug testing centre in the South-South geopolitical zone on Thursday, aimed at screening for substance abuse and addressing its health and social impacts. Chief Medical Director (CMD) Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu announced the initiative during a stakeholders’ workshop in Benin City, Edo State.

She highlighted the increasing concern of substance abuse, which can lead to impaired judgement, accidents, violence, and other severe consequences. The centre will screen for substances including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, marijuana/cannabis, ethanol, fentanyl, methadone, tramadol, and barbiturates.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu detailed the health risks associated with these substances, such as respiratory depression and dependence. The workshop included notable stakeholders like Edo State Commissioner for Public Safety and Security Hon. Festus O. Ebea and Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Edo State Command, Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, who discussed the link between substance abuse and rising domestic violence.