The Federal Government has introduced new measures aimed at tackling drug and substance abuse in secondary schools across Nigeria, including compulsory drug testing for students and temporary suspension for repeated offenders after treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
Under the new policy, all newly admitted secondary school students will undergo mandatory drug integrity tests at the point of entry.
The measures are contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools, designed to reduce substance abuse among students and promote safer learning environments.
According to the guideline, the initiative seeks to improve teaching and learning by reducing the negative effects of drug abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.
Schools are also expected to conduct periodic and surprise drug tests for both new and returning students at least once every academic session.
The policy prohibits students from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or other harmful substances without approval from school authorities. However, students using prescribed medications for medical conditions are required to declare them through their parents or guardians during admission.
The guideline establishes a three-stage intervention process for students who test positive.
Students who fail the first drug test will undergo counselling and initial treatment as directed by school authorities. Those who test positive a second time will be referred to professionals for specialised treatment and support.
Students who continue to test positive after a third round of intervention may face temporary suspension from the school environment while undergoing rehabilitation and further treatment.
The policy also introduces compulsory pre-test and post-test counselling to prepare students for the screening process and provide support after the release of results.
To ensure compliance, schools are required to establish disciplinary committees headed by school administrators.
The guideline further directs schools to report violent incidents linked to substance abuse, including fighting and physical assault, to law enforcement agencies.
Students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures may also be temporarily removed from the school environment until they are considered stable.
The development follows growing concerns over rising cases of drug and substance abuse among adolescents, with stakeholders warning about its effects on academic performance, discipline, mental health, and school safety nationwide.
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