By Desmond Mgboh, Kano
The Kano State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Muhammad Agalama, has declared that tackling drug abuse and trafficking is central to addressing more than 90 per cent of the social vices and security challenges confronting society.
Agalama made the assertion when the Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking paid a courtesy visit to the Kano State Command of the NSCDC as part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and intelligence sharing.
He described the growing menace of substance abuse as a major threat to peace, security and social stability, stressing that a sustained and coordinated response was required to effectively address the problem.
According to him, the fight against illicit drugs is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of security agencies, government institutions, traditional and religious leaders, community organisations, civil society groups and other relevant stakeholders.
He described the assignment as a challenging one that requires determination, commitment and strong political will from the government and all relevant authorities.
Agalama expressed concern over the devastating consequences of drug abuse on the younger generation and society at large, stressing that the menace must be confronted through a combination of enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, public enlightenment and youth empowerment.
He assured the Task Force of the full support and cooperation of the NSCDC, stressing that the Corps would continue to work closely with the committee and other sister security agencies to ensure the success of the campaign.
“The fight is for everyone to join, and we can get a drug abuse-free society. Certainly, there would be peace and tranquillity in the land,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, said the visit was aimed at seeking the support and collaboration of the NSCDC in the ongoing campaign against drug abuse and trafficking in Kano State.
Muhyi said the magnitude of the drug menace required collective action, stressing that the Task Force could not succeed in isolation.
The chairman noted that many of the social ills confronting society could be traced, directly or indirectly, to activities associated with drug abuse and trafficking.
He disclosed that barely one month after the inauguration of the Task Force, there had been a remarkable improvement in the activities of drug peddlers across the state, attributing the development to the combined efforts of the Task Force and collaborating agencies.
Muhyi assured the people of Kano State that the Task Force would sustain its campaign against drug abuse and trafficking, while calling on all stakeholders to support the initiative.
(The Sun)