The Federal Government has unveiled a new national policy requiring mandatory drug tests for students in secondary schools across Nigeria as part of efforts to curb rising substance abuse among adolescents.
The policy, introduced through the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, outlines stricter screening, counselling, rehabilitation, and disciplinary measures aimed at creating safer learning environments nationwide.
According to the new framework, all newly admitted students in secondary schools will now undergo compulsory drug integrity tests during admission processes.
Schools are also expected to carry out periodic and surprise drug screenings for both new and returning students at least once every academic session.
New Drug Screening Measures for Students
The guidelines state that schools must collaborate with approved federal and state health institutions when conducting the tests and other related procedures.
The document explained that the initiative is intended to reduce the impact of drug abuse on students’ mental health, discipline, and academic performance.
Under the policy, students are prohibited from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other harmful substances without authorisation from school authorities.
However, students who require controlled medication for medical reasons will be allowed to use them after proper disclosure by parents or guardians during the admission process.
Three-Stage Intervention Process Introduced
The government also established a three-step intervention process for students who test positive for drug use.
Students who fail the first test will undergo counselling and initial treatment supervised by school authorities.
If a student tests positive again after the first intervention, the school will refer the student to professional healthcare providers for specialised treatment and support.
Students who continue to test positive after repeated interventions may face temporary suspension from school while undergoing rehabilitation and treatment programmes recommended by professionals.
The guidelines further state that students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures may also be separated temporarily from the school environment until they are considered stable.
Counselling Now Mandatory Before and After Tests
The new policy also makes pre-test and post-test counselling compulsory for students undergoing screening.
According to the guidelines, pre-test counselling is designed to prepare students psychologically, explain expectations, reduce anxiety, and encourage cooperation during the testing process.
Post-test counselling, on the other hand, will help students understand their results and connect them with the necessary support systems regardless of whether the outcome is positive or negative.
Schools Directed to Set Up Disciplinary Committees
To ensure compliance with the policy, every secondary school is expected to establish a disciplinary committee led by the school administrator.
The committees will oversee enforcement procedures and handle drug-related incidents within schools.
The guidelines also direct schools to report violent incidents connected to substance abuse, including physical assaults and injuries, to law enforcement agencies.
Concerns Likely Over Implementation
The development comes amid increasing concerns from education stakeholders, parents, and health experts over the growing rate of drug and substance abuse among young people in Nigeria.
Supporters of the policy believe the measures could help identify students struggling with addiction early and reduce drug-related violence and indiscipline in schools.
However, critics are expected to question the readiness of schools, healthcare facilities, and counsellors to effectively implement the policy nationwide while protecting students’ rights and welfare.
