Health
Kano unveils task force to combat drug abuse
By Hussaini Ibrahim
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has inaugurated a Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse as part of efforts to tackle the rising menace of substance abuse and its impact on society.
The governor also signed an Executive Order aimed at curbing thuggery and other related criminal activities across the state.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa.
Yusuf described drug abuse as one of the greatest threats facing Kano’s youth, warning that the problem fuels violent crimes, destroys families, weakens the economy and undermines social stability.
“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.
He pledged adequate funding, operational vehicles, office accommodation, logistics and security support for the task force, while assuring members of the independence needed to carry out their duties effectively.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding rehabilitation services for victims of drug abuse, noting that separate rehabilitation centres had already been established for male and female patients.
On the Executive Order against thuggery, Yusuf said the measure would strengthen the legal framework for dismantling criminal gangs, reducing political violence and supporting security agencies in maintaining law and order.
Chairman of the task force, Muhuyi Rimingado, thanked the governor for the confidence placed in the committee and pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to address drug abuse and promote peace across Kano 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 providing credible information and cooperating with security agencies, stressing that the fight against drug abuse and thuggery required collective action.
He expressed confidence that the task force and the implementation of the anti-thuggery Executive Order would help reduce drug-related crimes and improve security across Kano.
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