The Federal Government of Nigeria is intensifying efforts to tackle the escalating problem of substance abuse among young Nigerians by introducing two major education sector reforms: mandatory drug testing for university students and the integration of drug education into both secondary and primary school curricula.
The announcement followed a strategic meeting in Abuja between the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa. In a statement issued by the NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, both parties agreed to work jointly in rolling out a national drug education strategy and strengthening prevention efforts in academic institutions.
Speaking at the meeting, Marwa emphasized that the growing rate of drug abuse among students is not just a public health concern but a direct threat to Nigeria’s future. He warned that the country must move quickly and decisively to reverse the trend before it further erodes the moral and intellectual fabric of the youth population.
“The fight against illicit drugs is a fight for the souls of the Nigerian youth. If we lose this battle, we risk losing a generation of leaders, innovators, and citizens. This menace must be tackled and tackled quickly,” Marwa said. He pointed out that many youths, including undergraduates, have become easy targets for drug traffickers, criminal networks, and mental health disorders due to growing substance abuse.
To address the problem at its roots, he called for a comprehensive, school-based approach that includes drug awareness, life-skills training, and routine drug testing as a deterrent measure. The NDLEA boss said early education on the dangers of drug use would help young people build resilience and make informed decisions.
In response, Education Minister Alausa expressed strong support for the NDLEA’s proposals and highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to reform the curriculum to reflect current social realities. He disclosed that plans were already underway to incorporate drug education into the revised school curriculum, starting from the primary level.
Alausa also announced the creation of a **Substance Use Prevention Unit** within the Ministry, which will coordinate policy design, training, and implementation of school-based drug prevention strategies. He further proposed the formation of a technical inter-ministerial working group comprising officials from both the NDLEA and the Ministry of Education to drive coordination and monitor progress.
The proposed mandatory drug testing in tertiary institutions will serve as both a preventive and rehabilitative measure. Students who test positive may be referred for counseling and rehabilitation rather than face punitive action, as the programme aims to prioritize student well-being while creating a safer academic environment.
Observers say these new measures signal a shift in Nigeria’s drug control policy from enforcement-focused interventions to more proactive, preventive, and educational strategies. The integration of drug education into school curricula could also help de-stigmatize conversations around drug use and make it easier for students to seek help without fear.
With drug abuse contributing to school dropouts, crime, poor academic performance, and mental health issues, stakeholders have praised the initiative as timely. They urge the government to ensure full implementation, provide adequate teacher training, and invest in psychosocial support systems for affected students.
As Nigeria continues to battle widespread drug abuse among its youth, the collaboration between the NDLEA and the Ministry of Education marks a bold step in confronting the issue head-on. Through sustained awareness, community engagement, and policy reform, the government aims to foster a drug-free generation equipped with the knowledge and support needed to thrive.
