Abuja – The Federal Government on Monday unveiled a national policy aimed at addressing drug abuse in schools across Nigeria. The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the formal presentation of the document in Abuja.
Alausa explained that the ministry adopted an 80 per cent implementation and 20 per cent policy development model, aligning with international best practices.
He emphasised that policy alone accounts for only 10 per cent of the work, while effective implementation is key to achieving tangible results.
“Implementation is the heart of what we do. Commissioners will drive this work, while the Federal Government provides technical support and resources,” he said.
The new framework includes three key policy documents. The first, the National Teachers’ Policy, seeks to strengthen teacher quality, enhance competencies, and improve professional development, including digitalised training programmes.
The second addresses drug and substance abuse in schools, marking the first national guideline of its kind in Nigeria.
Alausa noted that the policy incorporates counselling and behavioural support, but warned that repeat offenders would face strict sanctions.
“We must protect our youth. Addiction destroys lives, and President Bola Tinubu believes strongly in the capacity of Nigerians,” he added.
Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Lawal Olohungbebe, pledged full commitment to implementing the policies at state level.
He said, “Most of the implementation steps can easily be captured in our 2025 project plans. We will do everything we can to ensure that every part of these policies is well implemented.”
To further combat substance abuse, the ministry has revised the secondary school curriculum to include drug-prevention lessons, with plans to extend the programme to primary schools.
A new Substance Use Prevention Unit has also been launched to oversee nationwide implementation. In partnership with the NDLEA, UBEC, and TETFUND, the ministry will conduct awareness campaigns, competitions, parent outreach, and compulsory drug-integrity testing for students in tertiary institutions.
