The Federal Government has approved mandatory drug testing as a prerequisite for employment into the federal public service, in a renewed effort to curb the growing challenge of substance abuse in the country.
The directive, conveyed to permanent secretaries and heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, was announced in a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
According to the statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, 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 the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people, describing the trend as disturbing and a potential 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 to conduct drug tests in line with established standards and procedures.
The statement noted that the policy underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting a disciplined, drug-free public service, while strengthening national efforts to combat substance abuse.