The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all prospective applicants into the public service.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume announced the policy on December 22, 2025.
The directive aims to address rising illicit drug use and its impacts on national development and security.
A service-wide circular instructed Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to enforce the requirement during recruitment.
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MDAs must collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct tests following established standards.
The policy responds to alarming drug abuse rates among youth, affecting public health, productivity, and socio-economic progress.
It extends recent measures, including drug testing for students nationwide.
This initiative seeks to protect the public workforce from substance abuse risks.
The requirement applies across federal extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, reinforcing administration efforts against drug-related challenges.
