Kano Citizens Applaud Task Force as War Against Drug Abuse Gains Momentum

By Abdullahi  Kano

For many residents of Kano State, the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking has entered a new phase, with growing public attention on the activities of the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Since its inauguration on July 22, 2026, the Task Force, under the chairmanship of Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, has embarked on joint enforcement operations, dismantling suspected drug joints and criminal hideouts, prosecuting suspects and expanding efforts towards rehabilitation and reintegration.

The latest figures released by the Task Force indicate that more than 380 suspects have been arrested, while over 230 convictions have been secured within its first two months of operation. The operations have also resulted in the recovery of various illicit substances and locally made weapons.

For citizens who have watched the consequences of drug abuse affect young people, families and communities, the intervention is attracting attention because of its combination of enforcement and rehabilitation. Residents interviewed by the media have welcomed the renewed efforts, describing the intervention as necessary at a time when communities are increasingly concerned about substance abuse and associated social problems.

The Task Force has carried out operations in areas identified as drug and criminal hotspots, including Race Course, Filin Idi, Filin Mahaha, Tashar Rami, Kawo and Tashar Rimi. Authorities say the operations have targeted locations associated with drug abuse, thuggery, phone snatching and other forms of criminality.

One aspect that has particularly drawn public attention is the emphasis on protecting vulnerable children. The Task Force reported that 43 underage children exposed to intoxicating substances had been rescued and provided with medical attention, counselling and treatment. Two dealers were also convicted in connection with exposing the children to intoxicants.

Beyond arrests and prosecution, the Task Force has referred about 125 people for rehabilitation at the Kano State Reformatory Institute in Kiru. With increasing demand placing pressure on the facility, the state government has provided an additional rehabilitation facility in Tofa Local Government Area. The Task Force says its broader target is to take 10,000 youths off the streets, provide rehabilitation and skills acquisition, and support their reintegration into society.

Another significant development is the reported seizure of approximately 870,000 Pregabalin capsules from a pharmaceutical company. The Task Force said the seizure raised concerns about the possible diversion of controlled medicines from legitimate supply chains, highlighting the need for stronger monitoring within the pharmaceutical sector.

The campaign has also attracted institutional support. The North-West Development Commission recently commended the Task Force for what it described as significant gains in the fight against drug abuse and expressed readiness to collaborate on regional solutions. The Commission also stressed the importance of combining rehabilitation with law enforcement.

For many Kano residents, therefore, the significance of the Task Force goes beyond the number of arrests or convictions. Its activities have placed drug abuse, youth rehabilitation, child protection and community safety at the centre of public discussion.

As the campaign continues, citizens are expected to remain important partners by providing credible information, supporting rehabilitation and helping prevent vulnerable young people from being drawn into drug abuse.

The emerging message from communities is clear: the fight against drugs requires not only security operations, but also family support, responsible pharmaceutical practices, education, skills acquisition, rehabilitation and sustained community participation.

With the Task Force combining these approaches, its activities have become a major part of the ongoing conversation about how Kano can protect its young population and build safer communities.