The federal government has approved the implementation of mandatory pre-employment drug testing for individuals seeking positions in the public service.
Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), made this announcement in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.
He explained that this directive is part of ongoing efforts to tackle the increasing prevalence of illicit drug use and its detrimental effects on national development, security, and workplace productivity.
“This is outlined in a service-wide circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-ministerial departments.”
He stated that, according to the circular, permanent secretaries and heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals have been instructed to make drug testing a compulsory requirement in the recruitment of new staff.
The MDAs are also expected to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct the tests in accordance with established standards and procedures.
Mr Imohiosen highlighted that this decision stems from growing concerns regarding the alarming rate of drug abuse, particularly among young people, which has significant implications for public health, socio-economic development, workplace efficiency, and national security.
“The directive reflects the current administration’s commitment to effectively addressing drug and substance abuse and safeguarding the integrity of the national workforce.”
(NAN)
