The Federal Government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing for prospective applicants into the Public Service. He said Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments and Parastatals have been directed to make drug testing a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel. He noted that the policy was informed by concerns over the rising rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among youths. In November, the Nigeria Customs Service mandated drug testing for all incoming recruits and serving officers to enhance discipline and border security. Additionally, a July directive approved university-wide drug screening, signaling a nationwide push to address substance abuse.

Source: Punch December 22, 2025 21:20 UTC