The Federal Government has introduced compulsory drug testing for secondary school students as part of new measures aimed at tackling substance abuse in schools across Nigeria.

The policy, contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, requires newly admitted students to undergo mandatory drug integrity tests at the point of admission.

According to the guideline, students who repeatedly test positive to drugs after counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation may face temporary suspension from school.

The policy is aimed at creating a safer learning environment and reducing the impact of substance abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.

According to the document, “all new students/learners shall be subjected to drug tests and other measures approved by the schools/learning centres at the point of entry,” with the process to be conducted in partnership with approved federal and state health facilities.

The guideline also directed schools to carry out periodic and surprise drug tests for both newly admitted and returning students at least once every academic session.

It further stated that students are prohibited from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other drugs of abuse without approval from school authorities.

However, students who require controlled medications for medical reasons must declare them through their parents or guardians during admission.

The document explained that the objective is to identify students who need help while promoting a healthy and safe school environment. To ensure enforcement, the government directed all schools to establish disciplinary committees headed by school administrators.