FG to begin compulsory drug tests for secondary school students

The federal government has introduced mandatory drug testing for both newly admitted and returning secondary school students across Nigeria as part of efforts to curb substance abuse among adolescents.

The directive is contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria developed for secondary schools nationwide.

According to the policy, all students seeking admission into secondary schools will be required to undergo drug tests during the admission process. Schools are also expected to conduct routine drug screening for returning students at least once every academic session.

The government said the initiative is aimed at creating a safer and healthier learning environment by tackling the growing problem of drug and substance abuse, which it noted negatively affects students’ mental health and academic performance.

The guidelines prohibit students from possessing or consuming narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other harmful drugs without approval from school authorities.

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The policy also outlines a three-step intervention process for students who test positive. Authorities said affected students would receive counselling and other forms of support or treatment considered appropriate by the school management.

The move follows increasing concerns over the rise in substance abuse among young people in the country.