By AL-Kadriyar Abdullahi
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to introduce mandatory drug testing for secondary school students across the country as part of renewed efforts to address the rising incidence of substance abuse among young people.
Under the proposed policy, students will undergo drug screening at the point of admission into secondary schools.
A statement on Thursday by National Orientation Agency, NOA, this will be followed by unannounced periodic tests, to be conducted at least once every academic year throughout their stay in school.
Officials say the initiative is aimed at tackling growing concerns over increased substance use among teenagers and its negative impact on their health, academic performance, behaviour, and cognitive development.
The policy is being implemented in collaboration with relevant agencies in the education and drug control sectors. It is designed to ensure early identification of drug use cases and provide timely intervention before substance abuse escalates into more serious health and social challenges.
According to the framework, students who test positive in the first instance will receive counselling and initial treatment as determined by school authorities. Those who test positive a second time will be referred for specialised care, while students who continue to test positive after a third round of testing and rehabilitation may face temporary suspension from the school environment for further intervention.
Government authorities maintain that the policy will help reduce drug abuse in schools, promote safer learning environments, and encourage healthier lifestyles among students nationwide.
They also note that early detection will enable parents, school administrators, and healthcare professionals to provide timely support and guidance.
Supporters of the initiative say it reflects a strengthened commitment by the government to tackle adolescent drug abuse and reinforce preventive measures within Nigeria’s education system.
The Federal Ministries of Education, Health, and Information and National Orientation are working in coordination to ensure effective awareness, implementation, and success of the programme across the country.
