Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has inaugurated a Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse to coordinate the state’s response to substance abuse while strengthening rehabilitation services for affected persons.
The governor also signed an Executive Order aimed at curbing thuggery and related criminal activities, describing both initiatives as critical steps towards addressing insecurity and protecting the future of the state’s youth.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa.
Speaking at the inauguration, Yusuf described drug abuse as one of the most pressing social challenges confronting Kano, saying it has contributed to violent crimes, family breakdown, declining productivity and growing insecurity.
According to him, the newly inaugurated task force will serve as the state’s coordinating body for drug control efforts, bringing together relevant government institutions and security agencies to improve intelligence gathering, enforcement, public enlightenment, rehabilitation and inter-agency collaboration.
“The newly inaugurated Task Force will coordinate the state’s response to drug abuse through intelligence gathering, enforcement, public enlightenment, rehabilitation and collaboration with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders,” the governor said.
Yusuf assured members of the task force of the government’s full support, including adequate funding, operational vehicles, office accommodation, logistics and security, to enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding rehabilitation programmes for persons affected by substance abuse, noting that dedicated rehabilitation centres for male and female patients had already been established to aid treatment, recovery and reintegration into society.
“Our administration remains committed to providing rehabilitation and recovery opportunities for victims of drug abuse. Separate rehabilitation centres for male and female patients have already been established as part of efforts to restore lives and strengthen communities,” Yusuf stated.
The governor explained that the Executive Order on thuggery would complement the work of the task force by providing stronger legal backing for efforts to dismantle criminal gangs, reduce political violence and support law enforcement agencies in maintaining public order.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chairman of the Multi-Agency Task Force, Muhuyi Rimingado, thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in the members and pledged to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to tackle substance abuse across the state.
“We fully understand the enormity of this responsibility and will work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, educational institutions and community leaders to combat drug abuse and promote lasting peace across Kano State,” Rimingado said.
Yusuf urged residents to support the initiative by volunteering credible information and cooperating with security agencies, stressing that the fight against drug abuse, addiction and associated crimes requires collective action from government, communities and citizens.
He expressed confidence that the task force, backed by expanded rehabilitation services and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, would help reduce drug abuse and its associated social and security challenges across Kano State.
