Reps Recommend Compulsory Drug Tests for Secondary School Students
The resolution came following the adoption of a motion titled "Need to Introduce Mandatory Drug Testing for Secondary School Students in Nigeria," which was moved by Olanrewaju Oshun, the representative for Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency.
AKACHI NOEL 
The House of Representatives has called for the implementation of compulsory drug testing for secondary school students across Nigeria in response to the increasing cases of substance abuse among young Nigerians.
The resolution came following the adoption of a motion titled "Need to Introduce Mandatory Drug Testing for Secondary School Students in Nigeria," which was moved by Olanrewaju Oshun, the representative for Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency.
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During the debate, Oshun emphasized the crucial role of youths in driving socio-economic development and highlighted the necessity for government intervention to safeguard their well-being and enhance their contributions to national progress.
Expressing concern over the rising trend of substance abuse among young people, Oshun cited studies indicating a significant prevalence of drug and substance abuse in secondary schools. He noted that one in every four students aged between 15-19 years had been involved in substance abuse, with codeine-containing syrup and tramadol ranking higher than cannabis among the drugs abused.
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Advocating for a Random Student Drug Testing program, Oshun proposed a preventive measure aimed at deterring drug use and identifying students in need of assistance to stay drug-free.
As a result of the motion's adoption, the House urged the Federal Ministries of Education and Health to collaborate in developing a mandatory drug testing program for secondary school students nationwide. Additionally, the National Orientation Agency and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency were tasked with intensifying awareness campaigns about substance abuse among secondary school students across the country.
The House of Representatives emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address the scourge of substance abuse among secondary school students and underscored the role of government intervention in promoting a healthy and drug-free environment for the youth.
