Drug Abuse Responsible For 80% of Sokoto’s Insecurity— Sokoto State Gov. Aliyu

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has said drug abuse is responsible for about 80 per cent of the security challenges confronting the state, warning that the growing menace is destroying the future of young people and threatening society.

The governor made the statement on Thursday during a public lecture held to mark the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Qur’an and General Studies in Sokoto.

Represented by Deputy Governor Idris Mohammed Gobir, Aliyu said the widespread use of hard drugs has contributed significantly to banditry and other violent crimes, noting that many perpetrators commit atrocities while under the influence of narcotics.

He said drug abuse destroys families, fuels criminal activities, poses serious health risks and prevents young people from achieving their full potential. He urged youths to shun drugs and focus on becoming future leaders and successful professionals.

The governor stressed that tackling the problem requires a collective effort involving parents, teachers, religious and traditional leaders, healthcare workers, civil society organisations, community leaders and the media.

Aliyu disclosed that the state government has established the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Substance Abuse Control and Prevention to coordinate awareness campaigns and strengthen partnerships with stakeholders. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting prevention, rehabilitation and efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks.

Earlier, NDLEA State Commander Mustapha Gidado described drug abuse as a major threat to public health and security, while other speakers called for stronger action against traffickers and increased support for rehabilitation programmes.