By Lamara Garba
The Kano State League of Veteran Journalists has thrown its support behind the Special Task Force Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking inaugurated by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, saying the initiative could mark a turning point in the fight against substance abuse in the state if backed by sustained public participation.
The League’s Interim Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Mahmud, made the position known in a statement, describing drug abuse as a growing threat to public safety, youth development and social stability.
He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, parents and the media to join hands with the state government in addressing the challenge.
Mahmud said the establishment of the task force reflected Governor Yusuf’s determination to confront a problem that has continued to undermine the wellbeing and productivity of many young people in Kano.
He stressed that combating drug abuse goes beyond law enforcement, insisting that public enlightenment, prevention and community engagement must remain central to the campaign.
“The fight against drug abuse cannot be won by government alone. It requires the active involvement of families, community leaders, faith-based organisations, the media and every well-meaning citizen,” he said.
The veteran journalist pledged the League’s commitment to supporting the task force through advocacy, media campaigns and public education aimed at discouraging substance abuse among youths.
He said the association was created to bring together seasoned media practitioners to mentor younger journalists, promote ethical journalism and contribute to public policy discussions and development initiatives in Kano State.
According to him, the League is already designing awareness campaigns to educate residents on the dangers of illicit drug use and encourage healthier lifestyles.
Mahmud also noted that Kano’s rich journalism heritage, including producing two National Presidents of the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, made it imperative to establish a platform that leverages the experience of veteran journalists for the benefit of society.
He expressed optimism that closer collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, professional bodies, community organisations and the media would strengthen efforts to curb drug abuse and secure a safer future for the state’s younger generation.