Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has named Dr Aminu Garba Magashi as Co-Chair of the state's Anti-Drug Abuse Task Force. The governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, disclosed the appointment in a statement released on Monday.
The move demonstrates the administration's push to deepen ties with civil society groups, public health specialists, and other important partners tackling substance abuse, especially among youths. Governor Yusuf said the appointment aligns with efforts to create a safer, healthier society by addressing what drives drug use.
"The appointment reflects the administration's determination to strengthen collaboration with civil society organisations, public health experts, and relevant stakeholders in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse, particularly among young people," the statement read.
The governor believes Dr Magashi's track record and dedication to serving the public will boost the task force's work across Kano State. He expressed confidence the appointment would help reduce drug abuse in the region.
Yusuf also unveiled plans to launch a mobile court focusing on swift trials of drug offences and other crimes in the state. This initiative seeks to speed up justice delivery and toughen law enforcement efforts.
"The state government is set to establish a mobile court dedicated to the speedy prosecution of drug-related offences and other social crimes. The initiative is aimed at ensuring prompt justice, enhancing enforcement, and serving as a deterrent to offenders," according to the statement.
The mobile court will aim to discourage people from participating in drug-related activities by ensuring penalties come quickly. The governor's office said the approach combines both preventive and punitive measures to tackle the drug menace.
This dual strategy—appointing experienced leadership while creating faster prosecution channels—reflects Kano's comprehensive approach to combating substance abuse. The state plans to deploy both institutional reforms and community partnerships to address the crisis.
