The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government’s directive mandating drug tests for prospective employees in the public service, describing the policy as a positive step toward improving productivity and workplace safety.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Chapter, Funmi Sesi, said compulsory pre-employment drug testing would help address the rising incidence of drug misuse and abuse among youths and adults, which has continued to undermine efficiency and output in many workplaces.

Sesi noted that substance abuse directly affects workers’ performance, health and general productivity, stressing that employers have a responsibility to ensure that individuals recruited into public service are fit for duty. She added that similar screening measures already exist in tertiary institutions, where students undergo drug tests before admission, making the extension of the practice to employment both logical and necessary.

While supporting the policy, the NLC chairperson cautioned against potential abuse, warning that false-positive results could arise from prescribed medications or certain foods. She emphasised the need for transparency in the testing process to prevent favoritism, discrimination or victimisation of applicants.

According to her, the policy must be implemented in a way that guarantees fairness, accuracy and respect for the rights of job seekers. She said a drug-free workforce would reduce workplace accidents, improve workers’ health and lead to cost savings arising from fewer drug-related illnesses and incidents.

Sesi further explained that mandatory drug testing would enhance safety and efficiency in sensitive sectors such as the military and paramilitary services, where alertness and sound judgment are critical. She added that widespread adoption of the policy could also help reduce illicit drug use in society and support broader efforts to curb substance abuse among young people.

She urged the Federal Government to ensure strict but fair enforcement of the directive, noting that proper implementation would contribute to building a healthier, more productive workforce and a safer society.