The Federal Government has introduced compulsory drug testing for students in secondary schools as part of new measures aimed at tackling substance abuse among adolescents in Nigeria.

Under the new policy, all newly admitted students will undergo mandatory drug integrity tests at the point of entry, while returning students will also be subjected to periodic and unannounced screenings at least once every academic session.

The directive is contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools, according to a report by Punch Newspapers.

The guideline states that the policy seeks to create a safer learning environment and reduce the impact of substance abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.

It added that all tests must be conducted in collaboration with approved federal or state health facilities and follow established procedures.

The policy also bans students from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances or other drugs of abuse without approval from school authorities. However, students who require controlled medication for medical reasons must disclose such drugs through their parents or guardians during admission.

According to the guideline, students who test positive will undergo a three-stage intervention process involving counselling, treatment and rehabilitation.

Students who fail the first drug test will receive counselling and initial treatment determined by school authorities. A second positive result will lead to referral to medical professionals for specialised care.

The document further states that students who test positive for a third time may face temporary suspension from school while undergoing rehabilitation and treatment from qualified professionals.

The policy also introduces compulsory pre-test and post-test counselling for students undergoing screening.

It explained that pre-test counselling is designed to prepare students for the process, reduce anxiety and build trust, while post-test counselling aims to help students accept their results and connect them with appropriate support services.

To ensure compliance, schools are expected to establish disciplinary committees headed by school administrators.

The guideline added that violent incidents linked to substance abuse, including fighting and inflicting injuries, must be reported to law enforcement agencies.

It also warned that students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures could be temporarily removed from the school environment until they are considered stable.

The development comes amid growing concerns among education and health stakeholders over rising cases of drug and substance abuse among young people and its impact on discipline, security and academic performance in schools nationwide.

Supporters of the policy believe it could help curb substance abuse among students, while critics are expected to raise concerns over implementation, students’ rights and the readiness of schools and healthcare facilities to enforce the measures effectively.