TheCable

The house of representatives has asked the federal government to introduce mandatory drug tests in all secondary schools in the country.

The resolution was passed during plenary on Thursday, following the adoption of a motion by Oshun Olanrewaju, a lawmaker representing Lagos mainland federal constituency.

While moving the motion, Olanrewaju said substance abuse among young people is “fast becoming a global public health concern” and “gradually” leading to health complications, including disorders, drug dependence and death.

The legislator said studies have shown a prevalence of drug and substance abuse across secondary schools in Nigeria.

The lawmaker who didn’t mention the specific study, said one in every four students between the ages of 15 and 19 abused substances, with codeine-containing syrup and tramadol topping the list of drugs, ranking higher than cannabis.

“Random student drug testing (RSDT) is a drug prevention programme whereby students are tested for recent use of illegal substances and is aimed at deterring drug use and identifying students who need help with staying drug-free,” the lawmaker said.

He said a mandatory routine and random drug testing for students “is for preventive, not punitive purposes” and early intervention is crucial to achieving success in tackling the menace of substance abuse.

The motion was passed when it was put to a voice vote by Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives.

The house asked the federal ministries of education and health to collaborate and develop a mandatory drug testing programme for secondary school students in Nigeria.

The lawmakers also asked the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), to increase awareness on substance abuse among secondary school students nationwide.