The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has endorsed the Federal Government’s directive mandating pre-employment drug testing for all prospective public service employees.
The policy, announced on 22 December in Abuja, will apply across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). It is intended to curb rising drug abuse, enhance workplace productivity, and safeguard public health and national security.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, Ms. Funmi Sesi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Chapter, described the directive as a positive step towards ensuring that only fit and responsible individuals are recruited into the civil service.
“A drug-free workforce will help reduce workplace accidents, improve workers’ health, and lead to cost savings arising from fewer drug-related illnesses and incidents,” she said.
Ms. Sesi noted that substance abuse among both youths and adults has adversely affected work output, health, and efficiency in many organisations. She added that similar drug screening measures are already in place in universities, where students undergo testing before admission.
“Extending this practice to employment is a logical step towards promoting discipline and accountability,” she said.
While expressing support for the policy, Ms. Sesicautioned against possible abuse in its implementation. She called for transparency in the testing process to prevent false positives resulting from prescribed medications or certain foods, and to guard against favouritism or the victimisation of applicants.
She further observed that the policy would be especially beneficial in critical sectors such as the military and paramilitary services, where alertness and sound judgement are essential.
“Widespread adoption of drug testing will contribute to reducing illicit substance use in society and support broader efforts to curb drug abuse among young people,” Ms. Sesi said. She urged the Federal Government to enforce the policy effectively in order to build a healthier, more productive workforce and a safer society.
