By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano State Government has further strengthened the operations of the Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the provision of five brand new operational vehicles to enhance the committee’s capacity in tackling drug-related offences and associated social vices across the state.

The vehicles, comprising four units of 2025 model Toyota Hilux trucks and one Toyota Hiace bus, were formally handed over to the Chairman of the committee, Bar. Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, by the Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruk Ibrahim, at the Cabinet Office in Kano.

The intervention comes shortly after the inauguration of the Special Task Force, which was established by the Kano State Government as part of a coordinated strategy to address the growing challenge of substance abuse, illicit drug trafficking, and related criminal activities affecting communities across the state.

While handing over the vehicle keys, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruk Ibrahim, said the committee had demonstrated remarkable commitment and recorded visible impact within a short period of its inauguration, making the additional operational support necessary.

He noted that the provision of the vehicles was aimed at strengthening the committee’s mobility, field operations, intelligence coordination, and engagement with relevant stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

According to him, the Kano State Government remains committed to providing the necessary support required for the effective discharge of the committee’s mandate, adding that the positive results emerging from its activities are already being felt across the state.

The Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was constituted by the Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to provide a multi-agency response to the menace of drug abuse and criminal networks associated with illicit substances.

The committee brings together key stakeholders, including representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Hisbah Board, Kano Emirate Council, Council of Ulama, Ministry of Health, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, civil society organisations, and other relevant partners.

The task force is mandated to coordinate intelligence gathering, identify and dismantle drug distribution networks and illegal drug locations, support enforcement operations, promote public awareness campaigns, and strengthen rehabilitation and preventive measures aimed at reducing substance abuse, particularly among young people.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, its Chairman, Bar. Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, expressed appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the confidence placed in the committee and acknowledged the dedication of members and partner agencies working towards achieving its objectives.

Bar. Rimingado assured the government of Kano State that the committee would redouble its efforts to justify the confidence reposed in it, while maintaining professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the fight against drug-related crimes.

He said the committee would continue to collaborate with security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, educational institutions, community leaders, and civil society organisations to create a safer and healthier environment for residents of Kano State.

The establishment of the task force followed increasing concerns over the impact of substance abuse on public safety, youth development, family wellbeing, and social stability.

The committee’s intervention represents a renewed commitment by the Kano State Government to confront the challenge through enforcement, prevention, awareness creation, and community-based partnerships.

With the latest operational support, the Special Task Force is expected to expand its reach and strengthen ongoing efforts towards reducing drug abuse, dismantling illicit trafficking networks, and promoting a safer Kano State.