Sokoto Governor seeks collective action to end drug abuse, trafficking
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has called for collective action to overcome the menace of drug abuse and trafficking.
The governor said that the fight against drug abuse cannot be left to law enforcement agencies alone, stressing the need for collective action involving parents, teachers, religious and traditional leaders, civil society organizations, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and the media.
A statement issued on Thursday in Sokoto by Garba Mohammed, Director, Press Affairs
Deputy Governor’s Office, said the governor made the remarks during the commemoration of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Sokoto.
The governor said his administration was fully aware of destructive impact of drug abuse, saying it leads to the destruction of families, deprives young people of their potential, and contributes to criminality, apart from the attendant health risks.
Dr. Aliyu, who expressed concern over the growing threat of illicit drug trafficking locally and internationally, said his administration has established an office to handle all illicit drug issues.
According to him, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Substance Abuse Control and Prevention is responsible for coordinating awareness campaigns, collaborating with public and private organizations involved in drug control, and carrying out sensitization programmes at community and local government levels.
The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir reiterated his administration’s determination to support initiatives aimed at preventing drug abuse, the rehabilitation of victims, and dismantling illicit drug trafficking networks.
The governor commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for sustaining the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
He called on stakeholders to unite in safeguarding the future of young people and building a healthier and safer society.
In a welcome address, the State Commandant of the NDLEA, Mustapha Gidado, described drug abuse as not only a threat to security but also to the health and well-being of society.
He thanked the state government for its continued support to the agency and hoped it would be sustained.
In their separate paper presentations, the Coordinator of the Centre for Sensitization Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Alhaji Abdulrazak Shehu, and the State Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Dr. Aminu Ahmad Nyako, highlighted the functions and responsibilities of the NDLEA and the need for collective action to address the menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
