The Federal Government has approved mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all prospective applicants into the Nigerian Public Service. The policy forms part of renewed efforts to curb illicit drug use and strengthen discipline within the national workforce.
The approval was disclosed on Monday in a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Segun Imohiosen. He said the move responds to growing concerns about the impact of drug abuse on national development, workplace efficiency, and security.
Imohiosen added that Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments and Parastatals have received formal directives to implement the policy during recruitment exercises.
Drug Testing Becomes Recruitment Requirement
According to the statement, the directive was contained in a service-wide circular sent to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The circular stressed that drug testing must now form a core requirement for hiring new personnel.
It also directed MDAs to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) when conducting the tests. Officials said the tests must follow approved standards to ensure consistency and credibility across the public service.
Government sources noted that the policy aims to protect the integrity of public institutions and prevent practices that undermine productivity and discipline.
Policy Targets Rising Drug Abuse
Imohiosen explained that the decision followed rising concerns over drug and substance abuse, especially among young Nigerians. He warned that unchecked abuse poses serious risks to public health, economic growth, and national security.
The government believes early screening will help reduce long-term challenges linked to impaired performance and misconduct in public offices.
Part of Wider Anti-Drug Measures
The new policy builds on several anti-drug initiatives introduced in 2025. In November, the Nigeria Customs Service made drug testing compulsory for recruits and serving officers to boost discipline and border security.
Earlier in July, the Federal Government approved drug screening across universities nationwide. These measures signal a broader strategy to confront substance abuse across critical sectors.
Officials say the latest directive reinforces the administration’s resolve to build a disciplined, productive, and security-conscious public workforce.
