NDLEA, IBB Way Traders Agree on Joint Action Against Drug Menace

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, and the IBB Way Nasiha Traders Multipurpose Cooperative Society have agreed to strengthen collaboration to tackle drug-related activities in and around IBB Way Market in Kano.

The State Commander of the agency, CN DY Lawal, disclosed this when members of the cooperative society, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Musa Zakari Shu’aibu Gwale, paid him a courtesy visit on Thursday in Kano. The meeting focused on the growing concerns over drug activities in the market and measures to protect surrounding residential communities.

Gwale thanked the commander for the reception and said the market leadership had commenced measures to sanitise the environment, including the recruitment of special security marshals to deter illicit drug dealing and other social vices. He also highlighted ongoing youth empowerment initiatives aimed at providing lawful means of livelihood and reducing young people’s vulnerability to involvement in drug-related activities.

Lawal reiterated NDLEA’s commitment to protecting residents of Kano, describing drug abuse as a major enabler of crime and other social problems. He called for sustained cooperation among market leaders, residents and the agency, urging stakeholders to provide timely and actionable information. He further advised that all prospective special marshals should undergo drug screening to ensure they were drug-free and not vulnerable to compromise.

The two parties agreed on joint sensitisation campaigns, regular information sharing, training and capacity building for the marshals, as well as coordinated patrols around the market. They also pledged to maintain open communication channels and develop community-based strategies to curb drug-related activities, protect youths and enhance the safety of residents around IBB Way Market.