By Anamati Inyang | November 6, 2025
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called for mandatory drug screening in major institutions across the country, warning that rising drug abuse poses a direct threat to the future, stability, and moral foundation of Nigerian society.
The call was made in an open letter released on Thursday in Kaduna by NYCN National President Isah Abubakar, addressed to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
While commending the NDLEA for its ongoing efforts in the fight against drugs, Abubakar stressed that the scale of the crisis has grown beyond what families and individuals can manage alone. He acknowledged the role of strong parenting but argued that urgent, coordinated, and systemic measures are needed to protect young people.
Proposed Drug Screening Framework
Abubakar proposed a comprehensive national drug screening framework aimed at early detection and intervention. Key points of the proposal include:
Mandatory drug tests before students sit for Senior School Certificate Examinations and prior to admission into tertiary institutions.
Testing before graduates receive university degrees and before attending NYSC orientation camps.
Inclusion of mandatory drug screening in employment processes, both public and private, with routine re-screening for employees.
Political parties should require negative drug test results before issuing expression of interest or nomination forms to aspirants, with ongoing checks for office holders.
Abubakar emphasized that the framework should not be punitive but protective, focusing on early intervention, rehabilitation, and national wellbeing.
Cultural and Legislative Support
The NYCN president also urged the NDLEA to engage cultural influencers, including musicians and entertainers, to discourage public glorification of drug use and promote responsible youth guidance. He stressed that the framework should be backed by clear national legislation to ensure sustainability, enforcement, and nationwide compliance.
Call for Enforcement and Rehabilitation
Abubakar highlighted the need for swift action in prosecuting drug dealers while also supporting rehabilitation programs for those struggling with addiction.
“A drug-free nation is possible if decisive action is taken now,” he said, stressing that Nigeria’s future depends on the health, discipline, and stability of its youth population. He also affirmed that the NYCN is ready to work closely with the NDLEA to turn the proposal into national policy.
