The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all prospective applicants into the Nigerian Public Service, marking a new step in its campaign against illicit drug use and its impact on national development.
The directive was announced through a service-wide circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and addressed to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-ministerial departments and parastatals.
Under the new policy, permanent secretaries and heads of MDAs are required to make drug testing a compulsory condition for the recruitment of new personnel. The circular also directs MDAs to work closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to carry out the tests in line with approved standards and procedures.
According to the statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the SGF’s office, Segun Imohiosen, the measure aligns with the administration’s determination to decisively confront drug and substance abuse and safeguard the integrity of the public service.
The Federal Government said the policy was prompted by growing concerns over the alarming rate of drug abuse in the country, particularly among young people. Authorities warned that the trend poses serious threats to public health, workplace efficiency, socio-economic development and national security.
Officials described the mandatory testing as a preventive measure aimed at promoting discipline, professionalism and productivity within the public sector, while also reducing the long-term social and economic costs associated with substance abuse.
However, the new requirement is expected to raise questions around implementation, including the cost of testing, transparency in the screening process and the protection of applicants’ rights. Observers say clear guidelines, due process and strict oversight will be essential to ensure the policy is applied fairly and does not become a tool for discrimination or abuse.
The drug testing requirement is expected to take effect across all MDAs as recruitment procedures are updated in line with the circular dated December 22, 2025.
