The federal government has announced plans to introduce compulsory drug testing for students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
According to NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the initiative—driven by the Ministry of Education and NDLEA—aims to tackle rising drug abuse among undergraduates. It follows a meeting between Education Minister Tunji Alausa and NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa, who described drug abuse as a major security threat linked to crime and terrorism.
The testing will target new students, returning students after holidays, and random individuals, with Marwa emphasizing that positive results would serve as a deterrent rather than lead to expulsion.
Alausa also announced the creation of a technical working group and a new substance prevention unit in the ministry while directing drug education to be included in the secondary school curriculum review.
However, the policy has sparked criticism from ASUU and the Committee of Vice-Chancellors, who argue it is impractical and unscientific. They urged the government to focus instead on preventive programs, counselling, and improving university
