The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed strong support for the Federal Government's new policy requiring mandatory drug testing for students in secondary and tertiary institutions across the country. In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA described the initiative as a timely and necessary response to the escalating problem of substance abuse among Nigerian youths.
Commendation for Government and NDLEA
HURIWA praised the Federal Government and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for introducing the policy, calling it a bold, preventive, and forward-looking intervention. The group noted that if properly implemented, the policy could significantly reduce early exposure to hard drugs among students. The commendation follows the government's recent announcement of compulsory drug screening as part of broader efforts to curb drug dependency, improve mental health outcomes, and enhance discipline within schools.
Rising Substance Abuse Concerns
The organization highlighted that Nigeria has experienced a troubling increase in substance abuse among adolescents and undergraduates in recent years. This trend poses serious risks to public safety, academic performance, and national development, HURIWA warned. It particularly lauded the leadership of NDLEA Chairman Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd) for intensifying enforcement, sensitization campaigns, and rehabilitation programs in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
According to HURIWA, the NDLEA has maintained consistency in its anti-drug efforts, and the mandatory testing policy strengthens prevention at the grassroots level. The group stated, "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."
Call for Government Funding
While supporting the policy, HURIWA urged the Federal Government to bear the financial cost of implementation. The group argued that parents and students should not face additional financial burdens in complying with a national health and safety initiative. It also stressed the need for strict confidentiality in handling test results, warning that disclosure of sensitive information could lead to stigma, discrimination, and emotional distress for affected students.
Recommendations for Implementation
HURIWA advised the government to implement the policy in line with global best practices by combining drug screening with counseling, rehabilitation, and psychological support, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. The organization called on the National Assembly to strengthen funding and institutional support for the NDLEA to ensure effective implementation of anti-drug programs in schools and communities.
The group appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to support the initiative, emphasizing that tackling drug abuse requires collective responsibility. HURIWA noted that substance abuse among youths remains a major driver of crime, insecurity, and social instability, and early intervention through schools will play a critical role in addressing the problem.
HURIWA pledged continued support for awareness campaigns aimed at educating young Nigerians on the dangers of drug abuse while urging authorities to ensure that implementation of the policy prioritizes dignity, fairness, and protection of students' rights.
