By Deborah Nnamdi
The Federal Government has approved mandatory drug testing as a prerequisite for employment in the federal public service, in a renewed effort to curb the growing problem of substance abuse in the country.
The directive was conveyed to permanent secretaries, heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
The statement, signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, said the policy is aimed at addressing the rising incidence of illicit drug use and its negative effects on national development, workplace efficiency, and internal security.
The government expressed concern over what it described as the “disturbing” increase in drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to public health, socio-economic progress, and productivity within the public sector.
As part of the implementation process, ministries, departments, and agencies have been directed to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct the drug tests in line with established standards and procedures.
The statement noted that the new requirement underscores the government’s commitment to promoting a disciplined and drug-free public service, while strengthening national efforts to combat substance abuse.
