NANS Seeks Mandatory Drug Tests for Nigerian Students

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged higher education institutions nationwide to implement mandatory drug testing for both incoming and graduating students as part of their clearance procedures.

The student organisation stated that this initiative would help combat the increasing problem of substance abuse on campuses and foster discipline among undergraduates.

NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, made this appeal in Abuja on Monday during an awareness campaign on drug abuse and the importance of fostering a drug-free student community.

Oladoja indicated that the proposal, which would be overseen by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the health units of tertiary institutions, would act as both a preventive and corrective measure against substance misuse among students.

He stated, “Every incoming student should be tested for drugs during the admission clearance process, and every graduating student should be tested prior to their graduation.

“This is essential to ensure that no one departs the campus while under the influence of substances that hinder potential.”

The NANS leader further called for the establishment of drug-free clubs or committees in all higher education institutions to be supported by the NDLEA and student unions.

He reiterated, “Every incoming student should be tested for drugs during the admission clearance, and every graduating student should be tested before graduation.

“This is crucial to make sure that no one leaves the campus under the influence of substances that compromise potential.”

The NANS leader also advocated for the formation of drug-free clubs or committees in all tertiary institutions, which would receive backing from the NDLEA and student organisations.

He emphasised that the campaign requires a collective effort from the NDLEA, the Ministry of Education, and the administration of schools through ongoing seminars, testing, and awareness initiatives.

“Substance abuse among students poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s educational system and national stability,” he remarked. “We need to commence this battle within our campuses. A drug-free academic setting is fundamental for effective learning, safety, and moral growth.”

Oladoja appealed to the government, educational authorities, and civil society groups to endorse a Drug-Free Campus Initiative that would establish Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges as examples of moral integrity and intellectual development.

“The aspiration for a thriving Nigeria starts with a generation of mentally healthy, morally sound, and drug-free students,” he added.

There has been a push for drug tests for Nigerian students, a move the government claims is motivated by its aim to mitigate substance abuse in higher education institutions.

The NDLEA once suggested a three-part strategy to address drug abuse, which includes updating drug education materials in schools, introducing standalone prevention programs for secondary schools, and implementing a drug testing policy for higher education institutions.

This initiative will include testing for new students, returning students, and random testing throughout the academic year. The government intends to set up a Substance Use Prevention Unit within the Ministry of Education to coordinate anti-drug initiatives and update the secondary school curriculum to feature modern drug education materials.

The objective is to cultivate a safe and secure educational environment, ensuring that students are not ensnared by drugs and decreasing the chances of substance abuse-related offences. However, some stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of mandatory testing, arguing that it could drive substance use underground and that investmenprogrammests in preventive strategies such as counselling and peer education would yield better results.

Around 800,000 students are anticipated to undergo drug testing, which will be incorporated into the current medical fees. Concerns regarding the cost implications and logistics of administering the tests have been raised, with some contending that the policy may disproportionately affect students and infringe on academic freedom, according to a report by The PUNCH earlier this year.