Nigeria government introduces mandatory pre-employment drug testing for public service applicants

The Nigerian Government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing for prospective applicants into the Public Service expected to take effect across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as recruitment processes are updated in line with the circular dated December 22, 2025

Penpushing reports that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) conveyed the directive to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-ministerial departments and parastatals.

The service-wide circular explained that the move is part of broader efforts to address the growing challenge of illicit drug use and its impact on national development and under the new policy, permanent secretaries and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), are required to make drug testing a core condition for the recruitment of new personnel.

Penpushing further reports that the statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations Segun Imohiosen, stated that the measure aligns with the current administration’s determination to decisively tackle drug and substance abuse and to safeguard the integrity of the national workforce.

The statement said the government noted that the policy is driven by concerns over the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse in the country, particularly among young people, and warned that the trend poses serious risks to public health, workplace productivity, socio-economic development and national security.

Penpushing also reports that the statement pointed out that while the government views the policy as a preventive step to promote a disciplined and productive public service, it is expected to draw attention to issues around implementation, including cost, transparency of testing procedures and the protection of applicants’ rights.

Meanwhile, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have equally been directed to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting the tests, in accordance with established standards and procedures.

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