FG to Introduce Mandatory Drug Tests for Secondary School Students
The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce compulsory drug testing for secondary school students across Nigeria as part of efforts to tackle the growing rate of substance abuse among teenagers.
Under the proposed policy, students will undergo drug screening during admission into secondary schools, while random tests are expected to be conducted at least once every academic session throughout their stay in school.
The initiative is aimed at addressing increasing concerns over substance abuse among young people and its negative effects on their health, academic performance, and mental development.
The government said the policy will be implemented in collaboration with relevant agencies in the education and drug control sectors to ensure early identification of drug use cases and provide timely intervention before addiction worsens.
According to the proposed guidelines, students who test positive during the first screening will receive counselling and initial treatment recommended by school authorities. Those who fail a second test will be referred to professionals for specialised care and rehabilitation, while repeated positive results after further treatment may lead to temporary suspension from the school environment for additional intervention.
Authorities believe the measure will help reduce drug abuse in schools, promote safer learning environments, and encourage healthier lifestyles among students.
Supporters of the policy also argue that early detection will enable parents, school administrators, and healthcare professionals to provide proper guidance and support to affected students at an early stage.
The policy further reflects the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to combating drug abuse among adolescents and strengthening preventive measures within the nation’s education system.
The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the Federal Ministry of Education are expected to work together to ensure effective awareness, implementation, and success of the initiative nationwide.
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