The Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has introduced a new rule that requires all job applicants for civil service positions to undergo drug testing before they are hired.
This move comes after growing worries about drug use and how it affects national security, work performance, and public health. A notice released on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) says that Permanent Secretaries and heads of Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), extra-ministerial departments, and parastatals must include drug testing in their hiring process.
The order tells MDAs to work closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to make sure all tests follow proper guidelines and scientific methods.
The government said that only people who pass the test will be allowed to work.
The Federal Government pointed out the “high level” of drug use, especially among Nigerian young people, as a serious danger to public health, economic growth, and work efficiency.
Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, said the new rule shows the administration’s determination to protect the workforce from drug-related problems.
Government officials said the policy is part of a bigger plan to reduce drug abuse across the country, showing a proactive stance against drug use in important areas of government.
This new rule on drug testing in the civil service goes along with other efforts already in place, such as drug screening in universities and other important sectors.
Officials think this combined approach will help improve national security, boost productivity, and create a healthier workforce in Nigeria.