FG Orders Universities, Polytechnics to Begin Drug Testing for Students

The Federal Government has introduced new measures to tackle drug abuse in universities and other tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

Under the new guidelines, students who repeatedly test positive for drug use may be temporarily suspended from school until they complete treatment and rehabilitation.

According to the policy released by the government, all tertiary institutions are expected to begin mandatory drug testing for newly admitted students in collaboration with approved health centres. The aim of the policy is to identify students who may need help and to create a safer and healthier learning environment on campuses.

The guidelines explain that the testing process will take place in stages. Students who test positive during the first screening will receive counselling and treatment. After that, they will undergo another test. If the student still tests positive, a third and final test will be conducted.

Any student who tests positive after the third stage may be temporarily removed from the school environment to undergo professional treatment and rehabilitation before returning to continue academic activities.

The government also directed schools to carry out regular drug tests for returning students at least once every academic session. Institutions are expected to establish disciplinary committees, led by student affairs officers, to ensure that the rules are properly followed.
In addition, students who refuse to participate in counselling or rehabilitation programmes may also be separated from the school environment until they are considered stable.

The policy is not only targeted at students. Shop owners and vendors operating within campuses were also warned against involvement in drug-related activities. According to the guidelines, any vendor linked to illegal drug activities could lose their operating licence and be reported to law enforcement agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The Federal Government explained that the new measures became necessary due to the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people in tertiary institutions. Authorities believe that substance abuse contributes to cultism, violence, poor academic performance, mental health problems, and insecurity on campuses.

The government stated that the policy is designed not only to punish offenders but also to provide counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation for affected students.