Efforts to curb the rising tide of drug abuse in Kano State received a major boost on Sunday as the Zaura Foundation intensified its campaign to deradicalize and rehabilitate hundreds of youth addicts.
The foundation, founded by philanthropist and politician Alhaji Abdulkarim Abdulsalam Zaura, is partnering with security agencies to tackle the growing menace through a non-kinetic, community-based approach.
The initiative comes amid renewed commitment by the Kano State Police Command, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to stem the tide of drug abuse and youth-related criminal activities in the state.
Addressing stakeholders in Kano, Alhaji Zaura, the APC senatorial candidate for Kano Central in the 2023 general elections, expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of drug addiction and political thuggery among young people in the state.
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He warned that without a concerted effort from government, traditional and religious institutions, and civil society, the situation could escalate into a severe security crisis.
“The campaign is purely a humanitarian initiative with no political undertone,” Zaura stressed. “Our aim is to rescue our youths from a path of self-destruction, restore their dignity, and provide them with opportunities for skill acquisition and education.”
Zaura further revealed plans by the foundation to evacuate drug-dependent youths from the streets for comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration into society. He reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their fight against drug abuse and youth restiveness.
“Our intention is to bring life and hope to our youths. We dream of a peaceful and prosperous Kano where streets are free from thuggery and drugs and where residents can sleep peacefully,” he said.
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The campaign, which also involves community dialogue sessions with traditional rulers and religious leaders, has received widespread support from security agencies in the state.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, commended the Zaura Foundation for its timely intervention and reaffirmed the command’s resolve to rid the streets of illicit activities. He noted that non-kinetic approaches such as rehabilitation and empowerment are essential to addressing the root causes of insecurity.
Also speaking, the NDLEA Commander in Kano, Abubakar Idris, described the rate of drug abuse in the state as “alarming” but expressed optimism that the foundation’s initiative would significantly reduce the trend.
“This partnership is a step in the right direction. We believe with proper rehabilitation and continuous support, many of these youths can be reintegrated into society as responsible citizens,” Idris said.