Former President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Katsina State to unite against the growing menace of drug abuse among its youth.
Speaking at the Katsina State Consultative Forum’s Annual Dialogue held at the State’s Government House on Sunday, Buhari said “We cannot afford to watch as drug abuse dismantles our youths’ potential and the country’s future.”
The theme of the dialogue is “Tackling the Menace of Drug Abuse among Youths in Katsina State.”
“We must fix this menace in our society,” Buhari said, adding that “he asserted, reminding the audience that “a nation’s strength lies in safeguarding its people, with its youth representing its most valuable asset.”
“I urge all of us to unite and act decisively against drug abuse in Katsina State. We must not turn away from this self-inflicted suffering of our youth,” Buhari said.
He stressed the importance of collective action, urging leaders, educators, policymakers, law enforcement, and communities to work together in various capacities.
In a message targeted at the youth, Buhari said “You are the future administrators of this state. Your potential is immense, but it cannot be realized if too many of you succumb to drug addiction. Believe in yourselves, in your abilities, and in your future.”
He acknowledged the challenges they face but assured them of support and opportunities to resist the lure of drugs. He encouraged leaders to lead by example and set a positive tone for the state.
Recognizing the crucial role of law enforcement, Buhari called for increased efforts against drug trafficking and distribution, while acknowledging the need to address the underlying causes of drug abuse such as poverty and lack of opportunity.
“We must go beyond arrests and seizures,” he stated, highlighting the importance of tackling the root of the problem. He expressed support to Katsina State in its fight against drug abuse.
“As I said earlier, our youths hold the key to Katsina State’s future. We must take resolute actions against drug abuse, offer hope and opportunities to those affected, and usher in a future free from its grips,” he said
The Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Hon. Faruq Lawal Jobe, chairman of the Katsina State Consultative Forum Alhaji Aminu Danmusa, Chairman of Jaiz Bank Umaru Mutallab, Dr Usman Bugaje, among others, graced the occasion.
