NCS introduces mandatory drug tests for all recruits, serving officers
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Tuesday announced a new policy mandating compulsory drug testing for both new recruits and serving officers of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Adeniyi said the measure—integrated into the ongoing recruitment exercise—is designed to prevent individuals unfit for service or dependent on substances from entering or remaining within the ranks. He stressed that the Service can no longer risk compromised judgment among personnel charged with border security, enforcement duties, and revenue collection.
Speaking at the closing session of the CGC’s 2025 Conference in Abuja, Adeniyi, through a statement issued by Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, noted that preparations had been concluded for the mandatory testing regime.
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“The Nigeria Customs Service has concluded arrangements to subject all incoming officers and men to a mandatory drug test as part of the ongoing recruitment exercise,” the statement read. “A mandatory drug test would be carried out for all officers and men across all Zones, Commands and at the Headquarters. The Service would no longer tolerate a situation where personnel make sensitive decisions while under the influence of drugs.”
The policy will begin with new intakes but extend to serving officers nationwide as the Service works toward becoming a fully drug-free institution.
Adeniyi disclosed that recent incidents of erratic behaviour and questionable judgment in certain commands—later traced to substance abuse—influenced the decision. He warned that there would be no leniency, emphasizing that the Service would not allocate resources to rehabilitating personnel.
He further urged officers to prioritise regular medical checks, stressing the importance of both mental and physical fitness in delivering effective service.
The new directive comes at a time of heightened scrutiny of security agencies amid concerns over personnel conduct. Several agencies, including the police and immigration service, have already introduced random drug tests and psychological assessments following cases linked to substance abuse.
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The Customs’ drug-testing policy also aligns with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s call for mandatory testing across all security and uniformed institutions. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has repeatedly warned that the fight against drug abuse cannot succeed if security agencies retain personnel battling addiction.
Adeniyi’s move is therefore seen as part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening discipline, reducing operational risks, and deepening public trust in frontline Customs officers
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