Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), is set to begin mandatory drug testing for incoming and returning students in tertiary institutions starting with the 2025/2026 academic session.
According to officials familiar with the development, a technical working group has been established between the NDLEA and the Federal Ministry of Education to roll out the initiative, which could affect over 800,000 new undergraduates expected to resume in September, based on recent Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) data.
Confirming the move, a senior NDLEA official, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the plan is in advanced stages. He explained that urine-based tests — already in use in some institutions — would be extended nationwide, with implementation details currently being finalized.
“The working group is in place. It’s a simple test, like pregnancy or blood sugar tests. Many institutions already include it in their health protocols. The goal is early detection and intervention,” the official said.
While NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.) , described drug abuse as a national security threat during a recent meeting with Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa , both parties agreed on the urgent need for preventive strategies in campuses.
“We’re fighting for the future of our children. Drugs fuel crime — from banditry to terrorism,” Marwa stated.
Echoing the concern, Dr. Alausa emphasized the test’s importance, saying, “We must implement this. There’s no choice. Drug use damages cognitive development and employability. It’s a vicious cycle.”
However, the plan has sparked strong pushback from stakeholders , including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and university administrators , who question the practicality and ethics of the measure.
ASUU President and psychiatrist, Dr. Chris Piwuna , criticized the policy as misguided and unsupported by science.
“This won’t reduce drug use. Students aren’t the enemy. What’s needed is empathy, not suspicion,” he said, warning that compulsory testing could drive substance users underground, making them harder to help.
Dr. Piwuna also questioned what would happen after a positive test: “Is the plan to expel or rehabilitate? Force has never solved addiction.”
He argued that funds should instead be allocated to awareness campaigns, counselling centers, and student-led outreach programs.
Similarly, Professor Andrew Haruna , Secretary of the Committee of Vice Chancellors, warned against rolling out a policy that universities may not be able to sustain.
“Our campuses lack basic facilities. Testing thousands of students without sufficient staff or funding is unrealistic,” he said. “You can’t fix drug use by ignoring poverty, overcrowded hostels, and hopelessness.”
Haruna also raised concerns about consistency and oversight , asking whether the same standard would apply to private institutions, and how continuity would be ensured amid strikes or disruptions.
“Drug abuse is a serious public health issue. It requires planning, not political posturing. Let’s address the root causes — mental health, infrastructure, unemployment — and craft realistic, research-based policies,” he added.
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi , in a brief statement, emphasized that the policy is non-punitive and health-focused , aimed at encouraging students to seek help early and discouraging use through deterrence.
“This is no different from HIV or blood pressure checks. It’s for the good of the students,” he said.
As debate continues over feasibility and impact, the proposed tests have ignited wider national conversations around drug policy, youth welfare , and the future of Nigeria’s education system.
By Adeola Olaniya | August 2, 2025
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