By: Lamara Garba
The Kano State League of Veteran Journalists has thrown its weight behind the establishment of the Kano State Special Task Force Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the initiative as a timely and commendable response to one of the most pressing social challenges confronting the state.
The Interim Chairman of the League, Alhaji Aminu Mahmud, gave the endorsement while reacting to the inauguration of the Task Force, calling on all people of conscience, community leaders, civil society organisations, religious institutions and other stakeholders to rally behind the initiative to ensure its success.
He described the establishment of the Task Force as a bold demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to protecting the future of Kano’s youth and safeguarding the moral and social fabric of society.
“The growing menace of substance abuse among our youth is a matter of grave concern. It is a challenge that demands 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.
Alhaji Mahmud assured that the League of Kano Veteran Journalists would work closely with the Task Force in every possible way to support its activities through sustained public enlightenment, advocacy and media engagement.
He noted that by establishing the Special Task Force, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has once again demonstrated his commitment to the Kano project by taking decisive steps to address issues that threaten the wellbeing, security and productivity of the younger generation.
According to him, the fight against drug abuse requires continuous public education and behavioural change campaigns, stressing that the media has a strategic role to play in promoting positive values and discouraging harmful practices among young people.
The Interim Chairman explained that the League of Kano Veteran Journalists was established as an umbrella body to bring together experienced media professionals to mentor young journalists, promote professionalism and ethical journalism, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Kano State and Nigeria.
He observed that Kano, which has produced two National Presidents of the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, had long deserved to have a body that harnesses the wealth of experience of its veteran journalists for the benefit of the profession and society
Alhaji Mahmud further disclosed that the League is already developing a number of programmes and public sensitisation campaigns aimed at raising awareness on the dangers of substance abuse and promoting a drug free society.
He expressed optimism that with sustained collaboration among government, security agencies, the media, professional bodies, community organisations and the public, Kano would make significant progress in reducing drug abuse and creating a healthier and more productive society.