The Federal Government has unveiled a nationwide policy mandating drug screening for secondary school students in a bid to tackle rising cases of substance abuse among young people.
The measure forms part of the newly introduced National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools, which authorities say is aimed at promoting safer school environments and improving students’ wellbeing.
Under the new framework, students seeking fresh admission into secondary schools will be required to undergo drug tests before enrollment is completed. Existing students will also face periodic screening during every academic session.
Government officials said the initiative is intended to discourage drug use among teenagers while boosting discipline, mental stability, and academic performance in schools across the country.
The guidelines also outlaw the possession or consumption of narcotics and other controlled substances on school premises unless officially approved by relevant authorities.
For students found to have used prohibited substances, the policy outlines a structured intervention system.
Students who test positive for the first time will undergo counselling and receive recommended support from school authorities. A second positive result will lead to referrals to healthcare professionals for further assessment and treatment.
Where repeated drug tests continue to return positive results, affected students may be temporarily removed from school and placed in rehabilitation and recovery programmes supervised by specialists.
The policy equally makes counselling a compulsory part of the testing process. According to the guidelines, sessions before the tests will help students understand the procedure and ease anxiety, while post-test counselling will focus on interpreting results and providing necessary support.
Secondary schools have also been directed to establish disciplinary panels to enforce compliance with the new regulations. Cases of violence or misconduct linked to substance abuse are expected to be reported to security agencies where necessary.
The Federal Government further warned that students who refuse medical treatment or rehabilitation advised by professionals could face suspension until they are declared fit to resume academic activities.
