In a decisive move to enhance discipline, professionalism, and national security, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has announced the compulsory drug screening of both new recruits and serving officers.
The directive was unveiled during the closing session of the 2025 Comptroller-General of Customs Conference in Abuja. Adeniyi emphasized that the initiative is aimed at curbing substance-related lapses that could undermine critical Customs operations.
Under the new policy, candidates will undergo drug tests as part of the final stage of the recruitment process before proceeding to training. Serving officers will also be subjected to periodic screenings, integrated into routine medical and fitness assessments, ensuring that the Service remains a fully drug-free institution.
“The focus is on fresh intakes, but all officers will be included in this program as we work toward creating a professional and drug-free workforce,” Adeniyi stated.
The Comptroller-General warned that officers engaged in sensitive operations—including revenue collection, enforcement, and border security—must operate with full mental clarity. He revealed that prior reviews of erratic behavior in certain Commands were linked to substance misuse, highlighting the urgent need for the reform.
“No compromise will be tolerated. Every new officer will be tested to prevent the Service from having to invest in rehabilitating personnel later,” he added.
Adeniyi confirmed that the drug screening initiative will be rolled out across all Zones, Commands, and at the Service Headquarters. Officers entrusted with strategic responsibilities, from anti-smuggling operations to border enforcement, are expected to maintain optimal physical and mental fitness at all times.
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In his address, the Customs boss also encouraged personnel to prioritize their health through regular medical check-ups, emphasizing that mental and physical well-being are key to effective service delivery and safeguarding national security.
“The reforms we are implementing will ensure that only officers who are physically fit and mentally sound are entrusted with critical Customs duties,” Adeniyi concluded.
