The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Federal Government and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for introducing mandatory drug testing for students in secondary and tertiary institutions across the country. HURIWA described the policy as a timely response to the rising challenge of substance abuse among young Nigerians.
Policy Details and HURIWA's Stance
The commendation follows the recent announcement by the Federal Government of compulsory drug screening for students as part of broader measures to curb drug dependency, improve mental health outcomes, and strengthen discipline within learning environments nationwide. In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA described the policy as “a bold, preventive and forward-looking intervention” that could significantly reduce early exposure of students to hard drugs if properly implemented.
The group noted that Nigeria has in recent years recorded an increase in cases of substance abuse among adolescents and undergraduates, warning that the trend poses serious risks to public safety, academic performance, and long-term national development. HURIWA particularly praised the leadership of the NDLEA under Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd.), saying the agency has intensified enforcement, sensitisation campaigns, and rehabilitation programmes in its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse across the country.
NDLEA's Efforts Recognized
According to the organisation, the agency’s sustained crackdown on drug cartels, coupled with awareness campaigns in schools and communities, has contributed significantly to the growing national response to substance abuse. “The NDLEA has remained consistent in its fight against drug abuse, and the Federal Government’s adoption of mandatory drug testing for students is a commendable policy direction that strengthens prevention at the grassroots,” the statement read.
Call for Financial Support and Confidentiality
HURIWA, however, called on the Federal Government to bear the financial cost of implementing the policy, arguing that parents and students should not be subjected to additional financial pressure in the course of compliance with a national health and safety initiative. The group also stressed the need for strict confidentiality in handling test results, warning that disclosure of such sensitive information could lead to stigma, discrimination, and emotional distress for affected students. It urged that the policy be implemented in line with global best practices, where drug screening is combined with counselling, rehabilitation, and psychological support rather than punitive measures alone.
Broader Support and Implementation
HURIWA further called on the National Assembly to strengthen funding and institutional support for the NDLEA to ensure effective implementation of anti-drug programmes across schools and communities. It also appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, and civil society groups to support the initiative, noting that the fight against drug abuse requires collective responsibility. The organisation said substance abuse among youths remains a major driver of crime, insecurity, and social instability, adding that early intervention through schools is a crucial step toward addressing the challenge. HURIWA pledged continued support for awareness campaigns aimed at educating young Nigerians on the dangers of drug abuse, while urging that implementation of the policy should prioritise dignity, fairness, and protection of students’ rights.
