The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved mandatory drug testing as a condition for employment into the federal public service, as part of renewed efforts to address the growing challenge of substance abuse in the country.
The directive, issued to permanent secretaries as well as heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, was announced in a statement released on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
According to the statement, signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, the policy is aimed at curbing the rising incidence of illicit drug use and mitigating its negative effects on national development, workplace efficiency, and internal security.
The government expressed particular concern over the increasing prevalence of drug and substance abuse among young people, describing the trend as disturbing and capable of undermining public health, socio-economic progress, and productivity within the public sector.
As part of the implementation process, ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) have been directed to collaborate closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct the tests in line with established standards and procedures.
The statement added that the policy underscores the government’s commitment to promoting a disciplined, drug-free public service while strengthening nationwide efforts to combat substance abuse.
