The Presidency has cautioned schools against imposing charges on students for drug tests, emphasizing that any institution conducting such tests should ensure they are provided free of charge.
The commendation came alongside reports of collaboration between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and certain higher education institutions to implement drug testing among students.
During the unveiling of the Nigerian Students Flag and the Renewed Hope Students Agenda in Abuja, Sunday Asefon, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagements, stressed the importance of making drug tests accessible to students without any financial burden.
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Asefon further addressed concerns about institutions charging exorbitant fees for these tests, urging them to cease such practices immediately.
The issue gained attention following the announcement by Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’allah, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, in October 2023. He revealed that prospective students were required to undergo and present a drug test as part of the admission process, citing the significance of ensuring a drug-free environment.
However, Asefon vehemently opposed the idea of schools charging students for these tests, asserting, “Drug tests should be free.” He expressed support for the concept of students undergoing drug tests for beneficial purposes but strongly condemned any attempt to impose financial burdens on them in the process.
Asefon also outlined several initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerian students under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
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These initiatives include the Nigerian Student Leaders Regional Dialogue, the Annual International Students Day Celebration, the Annual All Nigerian Tertiary Institutions Students Affairs Conference, and local partnerships with embassies and international development organizations.
The focus of these programs is on addressing students’ challenges, promoting awareness of the Students Loan Scheme, and facilitating social investment and empowerment programs by the federal government.
