The Borno State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has taken a bold and decisive step to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and street involvement among young children in Maiduguri.
This move follows the circulation of a disturbing video on social media showing a very young boy—barely in his teens—openly admitting to using drugs. Investigations revealed that many of these children, aged between 12 and 15 years, were not only abusing substances but were also exposed to criminal activities.
The majority of them were identified in areas such as Bulabulin Kasuwa and Gwange Kasan Gada, known for being hotspots of youth vulnerability.
Acting swiftly, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, led her team to these locations to rescue the affected children.
In total, 73 children were successfully taken off the streets and have now been transferred to the Bulunkutu Rehabilitation Centre in Maiduguri.
There, they will undergo comprehensive rehabilitation, counselling, and reintegration programs under the care and supervision of the Borno State Government.
While addressing the children before their relocation, Hon. Zuwaira Gambo expressed deep concern over the rising trend of drug use among minors and stressed that the government will not stand by and watch the future of its youth destroyed.
“You are still very young, and you deserve a better life than this,” she said. “We are not here to punish you, but to support you.
“The Borno State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum is committed to giving you another chance to live a meaningful and responsible life.”
The Commissioner added that the Ministry will continue to trace, rescue, and rehabilitate more children at risk across the state while working closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, community members, and NGOs to eliminate the root causes of drug abuse and child endangerment.
This intervention reaffirms the commitment of Governor Zulum’s administration to protecting the most vulnerable members of society and building a safer, healthier future for all children in Borno State.
