The Federal Government has unveiled new measures to combat drug and substance abuse in secondary schools across Nigeria, including mandatory drug testing for students and temporary suspension for those who repeatedly test positive despite treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
The measures are outlined in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools. The policy aims to curb substance abuse among students and create safer learning environments nationwide.
According to reports by Punch Newspapers, all newly admitted students will be required to undergo compulsory drug integrity tests as part of the admission process. Schools will also conduct routine and surprise drug tests for both new and returning students at least once every academic session.
Under the guideline, students are banned from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other illicit drugs without approval from school authorities. However, students with medical conditions requiring controlled medication must disclose this through their parents or guardians during admission.
The government outlined a three-step intervention process for students who test positive. Students who fail the first test will receive counselling and initial treatment supervised by school authorities.
A second positive result will result in referral to healthcare professionals for specialised treatment and support. Students who continue to test positive after a third intervention may face temporary suspension while undergoing rehabilitation and additional treatment.
The policy also makes counselling compulsory before and after every drug test. Pre-test counselling is designed to prepare students emotionally, explain the testing process, and ease anxiety, while post-test counselling will help students understand their results and access appropriate support services. Schools are expected to establish disciplinary committees headed by administrators to oversee implementation 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 may also be temporarily removed from the school environment until they are considered stable.
The new measures come amid growing concerns over rising drug and substance abuse among adolescents in Nigeria, with experts warning about its impact on academic performance, mental health, discipline, and school safety.
While supporters say the policy could help reduce substance abuse among students, critics have raised concerns about implementation, student welfare protections, and whether schools and healthcare facilities have the capacity to enforce the measures effectively across the country.
