Federal Government Makes Drug Testing Mandatory for All Public Service Job Applicants

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a new policy requiring mandatory drug testing for everyone seeking employment in the federal public service.

In a circular issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) were instructed to ensure that drug screening is included in all recruitment processes.

The policy aims to address the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people and its perceived impact on national security, public health and workplace productivity.

According to the government’s directive, Permanent Secretaries and heads of MDAs must work with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to carry out the tests in accordance with established guidelines.

Officials say the move is intended to ensure that only candidates with a clean drug record are hired into the civil service, reflecting the government’s commitment to building a fit and productive workforce.