Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has deployed a 20-member team of experts and security stakeholders to intensify the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the state.
The newly constituted Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is expected to coordinate efforts among security agencies, health professionals, community leaders, and government institutions to address the growing challenge of substance abuse and drug-related crimes.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, the task force will be headed by Muhuyi Rimingado, the immediate past Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission.
Members of the committee include representatives of 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, Kano Emirate Council, Council of Ulama, Ministry of Health, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, among others.
The government said the task force was established to provide a coordinated multi-agency framework to disrupt illicit drug networks, improve the prosecution of offenders, and reduce drug demand through sustained public enlightenment campaigns.
The committee is also mandated to strengthen intelligence gathering and information sharing among security agencies, identify and dismantle drug trafficking syndicates, and establish secure communication channels for intelligence operations.
It is further expected to encourage community participation through confidential reporting mechanisms, identify major drug distribution centres, facilitate targeted enforcement operations, and recommend measures for the seizure of assets linked to drug trafficking activities.
In addition, the task force will work to ensure the speedy prosecution of suspects through improved evidence collection, standardised forensic procedures, and enhanced collaboration with the judiciary, including recommendations for fast-track courts to handle drug-related offences.
On the prevention side, members will lead public awareness campaigns targeting students, youths, and other vulnerable groups. They will also organise community engagement programmes, collaborate with religious and traditional institutions, and promote rehabilitation and support services for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Governor Yusuf described drug abuse as one of the greatest threats facing the future of young people, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling the menace through enforcement, prevention, and community participation.
“Drug abuse remains a danger to the well-being and future of our youth. We will deploy every available resource to confront the challenge and protect our communities,” the governor said.
He urged members of the task force to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, professionalism, and patriotism, stressing that their assignment is critical to safeguarding the future of the state.