Anglican Synod Calls for Drug Tests for Public Office Seekers

The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has urged the Federal Government to amend the Constitution to require drug and substance-abuse testing for serving public officials and individuals seeking elective or appointive positions.

According to PUNCH, the recommendation was contained in a communiqué issued after the 15th General Synod of the Church of Nigeria. The synod was held at Our Saviour’s Church, Ikenne, in the Diocese of Remo, Ogun State, from September 14 to 18, 2026.

The communiqué was signed by the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, Ven. Festus Chukwunyere; the Dean, Most Rev. Blessing Enyindah; and the Archbishop, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba.

The Synod expressed concern about the growing prevalence of drug trafficking, substance abuse and addiction in Nigeria, particularly among young people. It linked the problem to violent crime, insecurity and gang activity, while also noting its effects on mental health, families and the economy.

According to PUNCH, the church called for stronger efforts in public awareness, prevention, enforcement, rehabilitation and reintegration. It also advocated closer cooperation between government agencies, schools, families, communities, churches and other stakeholders.

The Synod further proposed a constitutional amendment that would introduce regular and credible drug testing for public officers and those seeking elective or appointive positions. It also called for appropriate sanctions where violations are verified.

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Beyond drug abuse, the Synod discussed several national issues, including insecurity, the economy, healthcare, education, food security, national unity and the 2027 general elections.

On the elections, the Church urged Nigerians, political parties and political leaders to prioritise national unity, peace and the common good. It also called for the rejection of hate speech, violence, intimidation, vote-buying and misinformation, while encouraging issue-based campaigns and peaceful participation.

The Church further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain neutrality, transparency and credibility throughout the electoral process. It called on the Judiciary to handle election-related cases independently and impartially.

On insecurity, the Synod asked governments at all levels to strengthen efforts to protect citizens. It recommended improved intelligence gathering, greater monitoring of ungoverned areas and the recovery of territories controlled by terrorist groups.

The Synod also raised concerns about the country’s food crisis, citing conflict, climate change, inflation and rising agricultural costs as factors worsening the situation.

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According to PUNCH, the Church called for improved security around farms, greater investment in mechanised agriculture, access to single-digit loans and transparent subsidies for farm inputs. It also recommended measures to reduce post-harvest losses and the establishment of a transparent Agriculture Trust Fund.

The Synod stressed the importance of empowering farmers to increase food production and strengthen national food security.

The recommendation comes after the Federal Government approved mandatory pre-employment drug testing for prospective applicants to the Public Service in 2025.

At the time, Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said the policy aimed to tackle illicit drug use and its effects on national development and security.

He said the government had directed Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments and Parastatals to make drug testing a requirement for new recruits.

source: Punch News