Kano to host Reps’ North-West summit on drug abuse, trafficking

Kano State is set to host the North-West Regional Summit on Drug Abuse, Drug Trafficking, Tobacco, and Alcohol Control, a significant event aimed at bolstering Nigeria's efforts against substance abuse. The summit, scheduled for later this year, is a joint initiative between the Kano State Government and the House of Representatives ad hoc Committee on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking.

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We appreciate Governor Yusuf for demonstrating visionary leadership by partnering with the National Assembly to host this important regional summit.

The event seeks to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, security agencies, health professionals, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organizations. The primary objective is to foster a coordinated response to the escalating problem of substance abuse, particularly among the youth population in the region.

Oluwatimehin Adelegbe, chairman of the House committee, highlighted that the summit is part of a nationwide advocacy initiative designed to generate practical recommendations for combating drug abuse and related social vices. Kano was chosen as the host city due to its strategic location, substantial population, economic importance, and its long-standing leadership role in Northern Nigeria. Adelegbe praised Governor Abba Yusuf for his commitment to safeguarding the future of young people and positioning Kano at the forefront of this critical campaign.

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His decision reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding the future of our young people and positioning Kano State at the forefront of the campaign against one of Nigeria’s most pressing social and public health challenges.

Adelegbe stressed that addressing drug abuse requires a comprehensive approach beyond law enforcement, encompassing legislation, prevention, education, rehabilitation, community mobilization, and strategic partnerships. He expressed confidence that the summit would yield actionable recommendations to strengthen Nigeria's legal framework and establish Kano as a model for evidence-based interventions and regional collaboration.

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The fight against drug abuse and trafficking cannot be left to security agencies alone. It demands a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach involving legislation, prevention, education, rehabilitation, community mobilisation and strategic partnerships.