FG mandates drug tests for secondary school students

The Federal Government has introduced new measures aimed at tackling drug and substance abuse in secondary schools across Nigeria, including compulsory drug testing for students and temporary suspension for repeated positive results after treatment and rehabilitation efforts.

The measures are contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools. The policy is intended to reduce substance abuse among students and improve learning environments nationwide.

Punch reported that under the new framework, all newly admitted students will undergo mandatory drug integrity tests during admission. Schools are also expected to carry out periodic and surprise drug tests for both new and returning students at least once every academic session.

The guideline states that students are prohibited from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances or other forms of drug abuse without approval from school authorities. However, students with medical conditions requiring controlled medication must disclose them through their parents or guardians during admission.

Authorities outlined a three-stage intervention process for students who test positive. Students who fail the first test will undergo counselling and initial treatment supervised by school authorities.

A second positive result will lead to referral to medical professionals for specialised treatment and support. Students who continue to test positive after a third round of intervention may face temporary suspension from school while undergoing rehabilitation and further treatment.

The policy also introduces compulsory counselling before and after drug testing. According to the guideline, pre-test counselling is intended to prepare students emotionally, explain the process and reduce anxiety, while post-test counselling is meant to help students understand their results and connect them with the necessary support. Schools are expected to establish disciplinary committees led by school administrators to oversee enforcement of the policy.

The guideline further directs schools to report violent incidents linked to substance abuse, including assaults and injuries, to law enforcement agencies. Students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures may also be separated temporarily from the school environment until they are considered stable.

The move comes amid increasing concern over rising cases of drug and substance abuse among adolescents in Nigeria, with stakeholders warning about its effects on academic performance, mental health, discipline and security in schools.

While supporters believe the policy could help reduce substance abuse among students, concerns have also been raised about implementation, student welfare protections and whether schools and health facilities have the capacity to enforce the measures effectively nationwide.