From Joan Ebohon
The Federal Government has introduced new measures to fight drug and substance abuse in secondary schools across Nigeria. As part of the new policy, all newly admitted students will now undergo compulsory drug testing before gaining admission into school.
The policy, contained in the National Implementation Guidelines Against Drug and Substance Use in Schools in Nigeria, is aimed at creating a better learning environment by reducing the negative effects of substance abuse on students’ mental health and academic performance.
According to the guideline, schools are expected to work with approved federal or state health facilities to carry out the tests. It also states that students will undergo periodic and rar n drug tests at least once every academic session.
Students are also banned from possessing or using narcotics, controlled drugs, or any harmful substances without approval from school authorities.
The policy further explains that students who test positive may be given treatment and rehabilitation, while those who repeatedly fail drug tests after intervention could face temporary suspension
