FG introduces mandatory drug test for all public service job applicants
The Federal Government has introduced compulsory drug testing for all applicants seeking employment in the public service.
The new policy is part of efforts to tackle the growing problem of drug abuse and its effects on national security, productivity and workplace efficiency, reports Gwg.com.
A service-wide circular issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation directed Permanent Secretaries and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as extra-ministerial departments and parastatals, to include drug screening as part of their recruitment process.
According to the directive, all MDAs are expected to work closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to carry out the tests. This is to ensure that the screening process follows approved standards and guidelines.
The government said the decision was driven by concerns over the “alarming rate” of substance abuse, especially among young people in Nigeria. It warned that the trend poses serious risks to public health, socio-economic development, workplace performance and national security.
The circular, signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, stressed the administration’s determination to protect the public workforce from drug-related challenges.
The policy also aligns with other ongoing anti-drug measures by the government, including recent directives making drug tests compulsory in universities and other sectors of the economy.
