Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has approved the establishment of a Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as part of his administration’s renewed efforts to combat the growing challenge of substance abuse and drug-related crimes across the state.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
The task force will be chaired by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, the immediate past Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission.
According to the statement, the multi-agency committee comprises representatives from key security, health, regulatory, and community institutions, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Kano State Hisbah Board, the Council of Ulama, and the Kano Emirate Council, among others.
The task force was established to provide a coordinated framework for disrupting illicit drug networks, accelerating the prosecution of offenders, and reducing drug demand through sustained public awareness and advocacy campaigns.
Under its mandate, the committee is expected to strengthen intelligence gathering and information sharing among security agencies, identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks, establish secure communication channels, and encourage community participation through confidential reporting mechanisms.
The task force will also identify major drug distribution points across Kano State, facilitate targeted raids and arrests, and recommend measures for the seizure of assets linked to drug trafficking activities.
Additionally, members are expected to develop strategies for the speedy prosecution of suspects through improved evidence gathering, standardized forensic procedures, and enhanced collaboration with the judiciary, including the establishment of fast-track courts for drug-related cases.
On the prevention front, the committee will spearhead public enlightenment campaigns targeting students, youths, and vulnerable groups. It will also collaborate with religious and traditional institutions while promoting 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 in the state and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the problem through enforcement, prevention, and community participation.
He urged members of the task force to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, professionalism, and patriotism to safeguard the future of Kano State.
The newly constituted task force is expected to commence operations immediately in support of the state government’s intensified campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.