Kano Governor Warns Youths Against Drugs and Violence

(Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusu. Photo Credit: TVC news)

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has urged young people in the state to stay away from drug abuse, violence and crime, saying their future must not be handed over to such acts.

He spoke on Thursday in Kano while addressing residents at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium during the celebration of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary.

He said the government will strengthen rehabilitation and skills programmes to help youths build productive lives.

Yusuf said the state set up a Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in July.

According to him, it has made more than 380 arrests and secured over 230 convictions in its first two months, while also shutting down drug joints and criminal hideouts across the state.

He said the fight against crime cannot be left to government alone and that parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, communities and security agencies all have a part to play.

He promised continued support for security agencies, stronger community intelligence, and more engagement with traditional and religious institutions to tackle the social problems that feed crime.

The governor also asked young people to embrace discipline, lawful business and responsibility, saying Kano has opportunities that can help them contribute to the growth of the state

. He urged residents to keep supporting efforts to maintain peace and security as Nigeria marks 66 years of independence.