The Federal Government has unveiled new measures aimed at curbing drug and substance abuse in secondary schools across Nigeria, including compulsory drug testing for students and temporary suspension for repeated positive results after rehabilitation efforts.
The measures are contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, a policy framework designed to address the growing prevalence of substance abuse among adolescents and promote safer learning environments nationwide.
Under the new directive, all newly admitted students in secondary schools will undergo mandatory drug integrity tests as part of the admission process. Schools are also required to conduct periodic and unannounced drug tests for both new and returning students at least once every academic session.
The guideline prohibits students from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other illicit substances without authorisation from school authorities. However, students with medical conditions requiring controlled medication are expected to disclose such information through their parents or guardians during admission.
To manage cases of positive drug tests, the government introduced a three-stage intervention process. Students who test positive for the first time will receive counselling and initial treatment under the supervision of school authorities.
A second positive result will lead to referral to medical professionals for specialised care and support. Students who continue to test positive after a third intervention may face temporary suspension from school while undergoing rehabilitation and further treatment.
The policy also makes counselling mandatory before and after every drug test. According to the guideline, pre-test counselling is intended to prepare students emotionally, explain testing procedures, and reduce anxiety, while post-test counselling will help affected students understand their results and access appropriate support services.
Schools are expected to establish disciplinary committees, headed by school administrators, to oversee implementation and enforcement of the policy.
In addition, the guideline directs schools to report violent incidents linked to substance abuse — including assaults and injuries — to relevant law enforcement agencies. Students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures may also be temporarily removed from the school environment until they are deemed stable.
The initiative comes amid growing concern over increasing cases of drug and substance abuse among young people in Nigeria, with education stakeholders warning about its impact on academic performance, mental health, discipline, and security in schools.
While supporters of the policy believe it could help reduce substance abuse among students and encourage early intervention, critics have raised concerns about implementation, student welfare, privacy protections, and the capacity of schools and healthcare facilities to effectively enforce the measures nationwide.
