The Federal Government has announced compulsory drug tests for newly admitted and returning students in secondary schools across Nigeria.

The policy was contained in the newly released National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools.

FG Targets Rising Drug Abuse Among Students

According to the government, the policy is aimed at reducing the growing cases of drug and substance abuse among adolescents in the country.

Officials said the initiative would help create a safer and healthier learning environment while improving students’ academic performance and mental health.

The compulsory drug test policy Nigeria has already sparked conversations in latest Nigerian education news and public health discussions.

New Students to Undergo Mandatory Drug Screening

Under the new guidelines, all newly admitted secondary school students will be required to undergo drug tests before gaining full admission into schools.

“All new students/learners shall be subjected to drug tests and other measures approved by the schools/learning centres at the point of entry,” the document stated.

The policy also directed schools to conduct periodic drug screenings for returning students at least once every academic session.

Students Barred From Possessing Illegal Substances

The government further warned students against possession or use of narcotic drugs and other controlled substances without approval from school authorities.

“All students/learners are prohibited from using or being in possession of narcotic drugs, controlled drugs or substances of abuse without approval from the school authority,” the guideline added.

The Nigeria school drug test policy has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today amid growing concerns over youth substance abuse.

FG Introduces Three-Stage Intervention Process

The policy established a three-stage testing, counselling, and rehabilitation process for students who test positive to drug use.

According to the guidelines, students who test positive during the first screening will undergo counselling and treatment approved by school authorities.

If a student tests positive again, the school will refer the individual to professionals for further treatment and support.

After a third positive result, the student may be temporarily suspended from school to undergo rehabilitation and professional care.

Counselling Now Mandatory Before, After Tests

The Federal Government also introduced compulsory pre-test and post-test counselling for students undergoing drug screening.

The guidelines explained that pre-test counselling is meant to reduce anxiety, clarify expectations, and encourage cooperation among students.

Meanwhile, post-test counselling is expected to help students understand their results and access appropriate support where necessary.

Schools Directed to Set Up Disciplinary Committees

The policy mandates every secondary school to establish disciplinary committees to enforce compliance with the guidelines.

It also directed schools to report violent incidents linked to substance abuse to law enforcement agencies where necessary.

Students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures may also face temporary suspension until they are considered stable enough to return to school.