The Federal Government is moving towards introducing drug tests for secondary school students as concerns grow over substance abuse among teenagers in Nigeria.

The proposal came up during discussions at the House of Representatives, where lawmakers expressed worry about the increasing number of young people involved in drug use. According to them, introducing drug screening in schools could help identify affected students early and reduce the spread of substance abuse among teenagers.

The lawmakers recommended that students should undergo drug tests at different stages, including during admission, periodically while in school and before graduation.

They also called on relevant government agencies and ministries to develop proper guidelines for the process and ensure that students who test positive receive counselling and rehabilitation instead of being treated like criminals.

The proposal has triggered debate across the country. Supporters believe it could help curb drug abuse in schools, while critics argue that the government should focus more on education, mental health support and tackling the social issues pushing many young people towards drugs.