The Federal Government has approved the introduction of mandatory drug testing for all prospective applicants into the public service, as part of its ongoing efforts to combat the rising menace of drug and substance abuse.
A statement released on Monday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, said the new policy aims to safeguard national development, workplace productivity, and security.
According to the statement, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments and Parastatals have been directed to make mandatory drug testing a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel.
Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have also been instructed to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in conducting the tests in line with established procedures.
“The directive on mandatory drug testing underscores the government’s determination to tackle substance abuse decisively and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices,” the statement added.
The policy builds on earlier anti-drug initiatives introduced in 2025, including university-wide screenings and Customs Service recruitment tests.
The Federal Government emphasized that the measure targets the alarming rise of drug abuse among youths and seeks to maintain a drug-free, productive public service.