RismadarVoice Reporters May 11, 2026
The Federal Government has introduced new measures aimed at tackling drug and substance abuse in secondary schools, including compulsory drug tests for students and temporary suspension for repeat offenders after rehabilitation efforts.
The policy, contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, mandates all newly admitted students to undergo drug integrity tests at the point of entry.
According to the guideline, schools are also expected to conduct periodic and surprise drug tests for students at least once every academic session in collaboration with approved health facilities.
The policy states that the objective is to create a safer learning environment and reduce the negative effects of substance abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.
Under the framework, students who test positive for drugs will first undergo counselling and initial treatment supervised by school authorities. Those who test positive again will be referred to professionals for further treatment and specialised care.
The guideline further provides that students who repeatedly fail drug tests after interventions may face temporary suspension to undergo rehabilitation outside the school environment.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, is leading the implementation of the policy as part of broader efforts to address rising cases of substance abuse among adolescents.
Schools are also required to establish disciplinary committees to enforce compliance, while violent incidents linked to drug abuse must be reported to law enforcement agencies.
