The Federal Government has introduced compulsory drug testing for secondary school students as part of fresh measures aimed at tackling the rising cases of substance abuse in schools across the country.
Under the new directive, all newly admitted students in secondary schools will undergo mandatory drug integrity tests at the point of entry, while periodic and unannounced screenings will also be conducted for both fresh and returning students at least once every academic session.
The measures are contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria for secondary schools, obtained by our correspondent.
According to the document, the policy seeks to curb substance abuse among students and create a safer learning environment in schools nationwide.
The guideline stated that the initiative was designed to “create a conducive environment for teaching and learning” by reducing the impact of drug abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.
It added that the compulsory tests would be conducted in collaboration with approved federal and state health facilities.
The document also prohibited students from possessing or using narcotic drugs, controlled substances and other banned items without approval from school authorities.
However, students on prescribed medications for medical conditions are expected to declare such drugs through their parents or guardians during admission.
The guideline introduced a three-stage intervention process for students who test positive to drugs.
Students who fail the first screening would undergo counselling and initial treatment supervised by school authorities.
Those who test positive a second time would be referred to medical professionals for specialised treatment and further evaluation.
The policy further stated that students who continue to test positive after a third intervention could face temporary suspension from school to undergo rehabilitation and professional treatment.
According to the document, “if found to be positive again, such a student shall be temporarily suspended from the school environment to take treatment from a professional and undergo rehabilitation.”
The government also directed schools to provide mandatory pre-test and post-test counselling for affected students to prepare them psychologically and support them after receiving their results.
To ensure compliance, every school is expected to establish a disciplinary committee headed by the school administrator.
The guideline further warned that violent acts linked to substance abuse, including fighting and inflicting injuries, must be reported to law enforcement agencies.
It added that students who refuse treatment or rehabilitation procedures would be separated temporarily from the school environment until they are certified stable.
The development comes amid growing concerns among stakeholders over the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse among adolescents, with experts warning about its effect on students’ academic performance, discipline, mental health and school safety.
While supporters believe the policy could help reduce substance abuse among students, critics are likely to question the capacity of schools and health institutions to effectively implement the directive nationwide.
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