The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved mandatory drug screening as a compulsory requirement for all new appointments into the federal public service.

The policy, announced by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), is aimed at curbing the rising prevalence of substance abuse and its negative impact on productivity, public health, and national security.

In a statement signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, the government described the increasing rate of drug use among Nigerian youth as “disturbing” and warned that it poses a serious threat to socio-economic progress and workplace efficiency. Permanent secretaries, heads of extra-ministerial departments, and parastatals have been directed to implement the policy immediately.

The directive requires ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to ensure standardized testing procedures. Officials emphasized that the initiative is part of broader anti-substance abuse campaigns and is intended to foster a disciplined, drug-free public service.

Stakeholders have welcomed the move as proactive, though labor unions are expected to seek clarity on issues of implementation, privacy safeguards, and workers’ rights. The government maintains that the measure is necessary to strengthen accountability and protect the integrity of the civil service.