The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the establishment of a special committee to combat drug abuse and trafficking of illicit substances in the state.
Abba Kabir Yusuf
The governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, announced this in a statement issued on Thursday.
Former chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, has been appointed as the committee's chairman.
The committee comprises representatives from security and health agencies, including the NDLEA, DSS, the Police, NSCDC, Customs, Immigration, the Kano Hisbah Board, the Council of Ulama, as well as other experts and stakeholders.
The state government stated that the committee was established to foster collaboration among agencies in curbing drug trafficking, ensuring the swift prosecution of offenders, and reducing the number of drug users through public awareness campaigns.
The committee is also tasked with gathering intelligence, identifying drug trafficking networks, conducting raids, arresting offenders, and making recommendations on the forfeiture of assets suspected to be linked to illicit drug activities.
In addition, the committee will carry out sensitization campaigns, particularly targeting youths and students, while collaborating with religious and traditional institutions to support those struggling with substance abuse.
Governor Yusuf described drug abuse as one of the major threats to the future of the state's youth, emphasizing his administration's commitment to using all appropriate means to address the problem.
He also urged committee members to carry out their duties with honesty, professionalism, and patriotism in order to safeguard the future of Kano State.