HURIWA Commends FG, NDLEA Over Compulsory Drug Tests for Students

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government’s new policy mandating drug tests for students in secondary and tertiary institutions, describing the move as a proactive response to the growing menace of substance abuse among young people.

The group said the policy, introduced in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), could help curb the spread of drug addiction in schools and encourage early intervention for affected students.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA said the compulsory screening initiative would strengthen efforts aimed at discouraging drug use among adolescents and undergraduates across the country.

The civil rights organisation noted that increasing cases of substance abuse among youths have become a major concern due to their link to insecurity, violence, declining academic performance, and other social problems.

HURIWA commended the NDLEA under the leadership of Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd.) for sustaining anti-drug campaigns through arrests, sensitisation programmes, rehabilitation initiatives, and public awareness drives.

According to the group, the agency’s engagement with schools, youth organisations, and communities has helped draw attention to the dangers associated with hard drugs and narcotics.

“The NDLEA has remained steadfast in the fight against drug abuse, while the Federal Government’s decision to introduce compulsory drug testing for students is a commendable step that strengthens prevention efforts at the grassroots,” the statement said.

The organisation, however, urged the Federal Government to shoulder the financial burden of implementing the policy to prevent additional pressure on parents and guardians.

HURIWA also stressed the need for confidentiality in handling the outcome of drug tests, warning that public disclosure could expose students to stigma and discrimination.

It advised authorities to adopt an approach that prioritises counselling, rehabilitation, and psychological support rather than punishment alone for students found to be struggling with substance abuse.

The group further called on the National Assembly to provide greater funding and operational support for the NDLEA to enhance the agency’s nationwide anti-drug programmes.

It appealed to parents, teachers, school administrators, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to support the campaign against drug abuse, insisting that the challenge requires collective action.

HURIWA maintained that early intervention through schools remains one of the most effective ways of addressing drug addiction and reducing crime among young people.

The organisation also pledged support for sensitisation campaigns aimed at educating students and communities on the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of healthy living.