The Federal Government has introduced compulsory pre-employment drug testing for all applicants seeking appointment into the federal public service.
The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, as part of efforts to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and its implications for national security and productivity.
According to the statement, permanent secretaries and heads of ministries, departments and agencies, as well as extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, have been instructed to integrate drug screening into their recruitment procedures.
It added that MDAs are required to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to conduct the tests, in line with approved standards and protocols.
The government noted that the policy was informed by rising concerns over substance abuse, particularly among young Nigerians, describing it as a threat to public health, socio-economic development, workplace efficiency and national security.
The statement further said the directive reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the public service and promoting a healthy, productive workforce.
“This move aligns with ongoing anti-drug initiatives, including recent policies for mandatory testing in universities and other sectors,” the statement saida.