Kano Veteran Journalists Back Gov Yusuf’s Anti-Drug Task Force, Pledge Support for Campaign Against Substance Abuse

The Kano State League of Veteran Journalists has endorsed the establishment of the Kano State Special Task Force Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the initiative as a bold and timely intervention to tackle one of the state’s most pressing social challenges.

The League’s Interim Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Mahmud, gave the endorsement while reacting to the inauguration of the Task Force, urging community leaders, religious institutions, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders to unite behind the initiative to ensure its success.

Mahmud described the creation of the Task Force as a clear demonstration of Governor Yusuf’s commitment to protecting the future of Kano’s youth and preserving the state’s moral and social values.

“The growing menace of substance abuse among our youth is a matter of grave concern. It is a challenge that requires collective action from government, families, religious leaders, traditional institutions, the media and every responsible citizen. No single institution can tackle this problem alone,” he said.

He assured that the League of Veteran Journalists would collaborate closely with the Task Force by supporting its activities through sustained public enlightenment campaigns, advocacy and strategic media engagement.

According to Mahmud, Governor Yusuf has once again demonstrated leadership by taking decisive steps to address issues that threaten the wellbeing, security and productivity of the younger generation.

He stressed that the fight against drug abuse must be driven by continuous public education and behavioural change campaigns, noting that the media has a critical role in promoting positive values and discouraging harmful practices among young people.

Mahmud explained that the League of Veteran Journalists was established to bring together experienced media professionals to mentor younger journalists, promote professionalism and ethical journalism, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Kano State and Nigeria.

He noted that Kano, which has produced two National Presidents of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), has a rich journalism heritage that makes the formation of the League both timely and necessary.

The Interim Chairman also disclosed that the League is developing a series of public awareness and sensitisation programmes aimed at educating citizens on the dangers of substance abuse and promoting a drug-free society.

He expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among the government, security agencies, the media, professional bodies, community organisations and the public would significantly reduce drug abuse and help build a healthier, safer and more productive Kano State.