the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has announced that all newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session must undergo a mandatory toxicology (drug) test before completing their registration.
The new measure, officially approved by the university’s management, forms part of the institution’s commitment to maintaining a drug-free campus and ensuring that every student admitted into the university community upholds the values of integrity, responsibility, and sound moral behavior.
Purpose Behind the Drug Testing Policy
According to UNILAG’s management, the mandatory toxicology test is designed to curb the rising rate of drug abuse among young people, especially within tertiary institutions. The school emphasized that the university, being a citadel of learning and character building, cannot overlook the dangers associated with drug use and its negative impact on academic performance, social conduct, and mental health.
The toxicology screening policy is an extension of the university’s long-standing zero-tolerance stance on illicit drug use, which aims to protect both students and staff while fostering a safe and conducive environment for learning and innovation.
What the Policy States
Under the newly reinforced policy, every new undergraduate student who has been offered admission into any faculty or department of UNILAG must take and pass the drug test as part of their registration and clearance process.
The toxicology screening will be conducted at the designated university health facility, supervised by qualified medical personnel, to ensure authenticity and fairness.
Students who test negative will be cleared to continue with their registration and academic activities. However, any student who tests positive for banned substances will have their admission offer withdrawn immediately, in line with the university’s disciplinary and health regulations.
Implementation Timeline and Venue
For the 2025/2026 academic session, UNILAG has announced that the toxicology screening exercise will commence on Monday, November 3, 2025, and will take place at the Tolu Odugbemi Hall (Staff School Hall), Akoka Campus.
The exercise is expected to span several weeks to accommodate all newly admitted students across the various faculties. Each student will be assigned a specific screening date to prevent overcrowding and ensure a smooth, organized process.
Documents and Requirements for the Screening
All new students are required to come with the following documents during the toxicology screening:
| Required Items | Description |
|---|---|
| Proof of Admission | Admission letter or evidence of offer from the University of Lagos |
| Payment Receipt | Proof of payment for screening and other registration charges |
| Valid ID Card | Any government-issued or provisional school identification card |
| Passport Photograph | Recent passport photo for documentation |
| Biodata Form | Printed from the student’s registration portal |
It is important for students to bring all necessary documents to avoid unnecessary delays or disqualification during the screening process.
Implications for Students Who Test Positive
UNILAG has made it unequivocally clear that any student who fails the toxicology test—meaning they test positive for the use of prohibited substances—will automatically lose their admission.
Such cases will not be entertained or reconsidered, as the university maintains that allowing drug-dependent individuals to proceed with registration poses a serious risk to the integrity of the academic community.
However, the policy also provides a rehabilitation advisory option, where affected candidates may be directed to certified counseling and rehabilitation centers for help, should they wish to reapply in future admission cycles after full recovery and certification.
University’s Stand on Drug Use
The University of Lagos has long been recognized for its progressive leadership in student welfare and moral development. The institution believes that a drug-free environment enhances academic excellence and helps produce graduates of sound mind, character, and competence.
The Vice-Chancellor reiterated that the university’s management will continue to introduce measures that discourage substance abuse, encourage healthy lifestyles, and support mental well-being among students.
The toxicology screening initiative, according to the university, reflects a collective effort to ensure that the next generation of UNILAG graduates are disciplined, responsible, and fully prepared for leadership roles within society.
Why the Toxicology Test Matters
Drug use among university students has become a growing concern across Nigeria and beyond. Many institutions have faced cases of declining student performance, violent behavior, and mental breakdowns linked to substance abuse.
By introducing mandatory toxicology screening, UNILAG aims to set a new national standard for student health and discipline policies, encouraging other tertiary institutions to adopt similar preventive measures.
The university’s decision also sends a strong message to incoming students about the importance of maintaining clean habits and avoiding peer pressure that could lead to substance misuse.
Student and Public Reactions
The announcement has generated a mix of reactions among students and parents. While some expressed concern about privacy and the stress of additional screening procedures, the majority praised the university for taking a firm and preventive approach to address a serious social problem.
Parents have particularly lauded the policy as a much-needed safeguard, emphasizing that early detection and deterrence are essential in protecting young adults from the dangers of drug addiction and its consequences on their academic future.
A Step Toward a Safer, Healthier Campus
With this new policy, the University of Lagos reaffirms its role as a pacesetter in academic excellence and moral integrity. The institution continues to lead initiatives that balance intellectual pursuit with character development, ensuring that the university remains not only a hub of learning but also a community of safety, wellness, and responsibility.
Students are therefore advised to comply with all guidelines, arrive on time for their toxicology screening, and avoid any activity that may put their admission at risk.
