By Rosemary Ameh, Sokoto
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, describing the menace as a major threat to the future of young people and the development of society.
The governor made the pledge on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Qur’an and General Studies, Sokoto.
Represented by his deputy, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir, the governor said drug abuse continues to destroy families, rob the youth of their potentials, fuel criminal activities and create serious health and social challenges.
He also expressed concern over the increasing threat of illicit drug trafficking, noting that it contributes to organized crime and undermines both national and international security.
The fight against drug abuse cannot be left to law enforcement agencies alone, the governor stressed, pointing out that the need for collective action should involve parents, teachers, religious and traditional leaders, civil society groups, healthcare professionals, community leaders and the media.
Aliyu disclosed that the state government had established the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Substance Abuse Control and Prevention as part of efforts to curb drug abuse across the state.
According to him, the office is tasked with coordinating awareness campaigns through various media platforms, collaborating with organizations involved in drug control and conducting sensitization programmes in communities and Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The governor reiterated his administration’s determination to support initiatives aimed at preventing drug abuse, rehabilitating victims and dismantling criminal networks involved in illicit drug trafficking.
He commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its sustained efforts in the fight against drug related crimes and called on stakeholders to work together to safeguard the future of the younger generation.
Earlier, the Sokoto State Commander of NDLEA, Mustapha Gidado, described drug abuse as a serious threat to public health and security.
He thanked the state government for its continued support and expressed optimism that the partnership would be strengthened further.
In separate presentations, the Coordinator of the Centre for Sensitization Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Alhaji Abdulrazak Shehu, and the Chairman of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in Sokoto State, Dr. Aminu Ahmad Nyako, highlighted the responsibilities of NDLEA and emphasized the need for collective efforts to address drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Gov. Aliyu.
