By Lamara Garba
The Kano State League of Veteran Journalists has pledged to deploy its professional expertise and media influence to support Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s newly inaugurated Special Task Force Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking, describing the battle against substance abuse as a collective responsibility that extends beyond government.
The pledge came as the League commended the governor for establishing the task force, saying the move signalled a firm commitment to tackling the growing threat of drug abuse among young people in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the League, its Interim Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Mahmud, said the organisation would partner with the task force through sustained public enlightenment campaigns, advocacy and strategic media engagement to mobilise public support for the anti-drug initiative.
He urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to actively support the campaign, warning that the increasing prevalence of substance abuse poses serious risks to public safety, family life and youth development.
Mahmud said the task force provides an opportunity to confront the menace through a combination of enforcement, prevention and public education, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved through broad-based collaboration.
He explained that the League was established to harness the experience of veteran journalists in mentoring younger practitioners, promoting ethical journalism and contributing to policies and initiatives that advance the development of Kano State.
According to him, the association is already developing community-based sensitisation programmes aimed at educating residents on the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging healthy lifestyles, particularly among young people.
He noted that Kano’s longstanding contribution to journalism, including producing two National Presidents of the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, underscores the need for veteran media professionals to play a more active role in addressing critical social issues.
Expressing confidence in the initiative, Mahmud said sustained cooperation among government agencies, security institutions, the media, community leaders and the public would strengthen efforts to curb drug abuse and build a safer and more productive society.