Gov. Yusuf Sets Up Special Task Force to Combat Drug Abuse in Kano, Appoints Muhuyi Magaji as Chairman
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has inaugurated a Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as part of efforts to curb the rising cases of substance abuse and drug-related crimes in Kano State.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s Director General of Media and Publicity, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
The governor appointed former Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, to chair the multi-agency task force.
The committee comprises representatives of key security agencies, health institutions, professional bodies, traditional and religious institutions, as well as civil society stakeholders. Members include officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Kano State Hisbah Board, the Emirate Council, and the Council of Ulama, among others.
According to the statement, the task force was established to coordinate efforts aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks, strengthening law enforcement operations, ensuring speedy prosecution of offenders, and reducing the demand for illicit substances through public education and advocacy.
The committee is expected to enhance intelligence sharing among security agencies, identify and shut down drug distribution centres, facilitate targeted operations against traffickers, and recommend measures for confiscating assets linked to the illicit drug trade.
It is also mandated to improve evidence gathering and forensic procedures, while working with the judiciary to promote the establishment of fast-track courts for drug-related offences.
Beyond enforcement, the task force will spearhead awareness campaigns targeting young people, students and other vulnerable groups. It will also collaborate with religious leaders, traditional institutions and community organisations to promote prevention, rehabilitation and support services for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Governor Yusuf described drug abuse as one of the most serious threats confronting the future of the state’s youth and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the challenge through a combination of enforcement, prevention and community engagement.
He urged members of the task force to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, professionalism and patriotism in order to protect the future of Kano State.
The task force is expected to commence operations immediately in support of the state government’s campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
