The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced mandatory drug testing as a prerequisite for employment in the federal public service, part of renewed efforts to tackle the country’s rising substance abuse problem.
The directive, communicated to permanent secretaries and heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, was announced on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
According to the statement signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, the policy aims to curb the growing incidence of illicit drug use and its negative impact on national development, workplace efficiency, and internal security.
“The government is particularly concerned about the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse among young people. This disturbing trend threatens public health, socio-economic progress, and productivity within the public sector,” the statement said.
As part of the implementation process, ministries, departments, and agencies have been directed to collaborate closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct the tests in line with established standards and procedures.
The policy reinforces the government’s commitment to fostering a disciplined, drug-free public service while strengthening national efforts to combat substance abuse.
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