Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has urged youths in the state to reject drug abuse, violence and criminal activities, saying their future must not be surrendered to such acts.
The governor made the call on Thursday in Kano while addressing residents during the celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium.
He said the government would strengthen rehabilitation and skills development programmes to help youths build productive lives.
“Our message to our youth is clear: your future must not be surrendered to drugs, violence or criminality,” the governor said.
He said the state government had taken steps to tackle drug abuse and illicit trafficking through the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, established in July.
According to him, the task force recorded more than 380 arrests and over 230 convictions within its first two months of operation, while also dismantling drug joints and criminal hideouts across the state.
Yusuf said the fight against crime could not be left to government alone.
He stressed that parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, communities and security agencies all had roles to play.
“This is why we shall continue to support our security agencies, strengthen community-based intelligence, engage traditional and religious institutions, and address the underlying social challenges that contribute to crime and insecurity,” he said.
The governor also called on young people to embrace discipline, lawful enterprise and responsibility, saying Kano had opportunities that could help them contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
He urged residents to continue supporting efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security across the state as Nigeria marks 66 years of independence.