By Eze Adiuku
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has highlighted the state government’s efforts in improving security and engaging youths in peace-building initiatives, while urging deeper collaboration with the media to sustain public confidence and social stability.
The governor made the remarks during an address on security and public safety delivered at the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abuja on Wednesday.
Represented by the Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, the Governor revealed that over 3,040 youths have so far embraced peace initiatives and have been enrolled in government intervention programmes designed to promote rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
According to him, the first phase of the pilot programme is expected to commence with 1,000 repentant youths, with the state government committing more than ₦500 million to support its implementation.
Governor Yusuf also announced the establishment of a specialised anti-illicit drug and phone-snatching task force as part of measures to address emerging security concerns across the state.
He explained that the initiative was introduced in response to the increasing cases of phone snatching and related street crimes that had become a major source of concern for residents.
The governor disclosed that more than 600 young men and women were recruited and trained to confront the challenge, noting that the intervention has already begun yielding positive outcomes.
According to him, the security squad has recorded successes in identifying criminal networks, recovering stolen mobile devices, arresting suspects, and strengthening public trust in urban security operations.
He added that the activities of the task force have contributed to a noticeable reduction in phone theft incidents and improved safety in several parts of Kano State.
Beyond security operations, Governor Yusuf emphasised the critical role of the media in promoting peace, security, and national development.
He called on journalists and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to remain committed to responsible journalism, fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and public awareness campaigns.
The governor observed that in an age of fast-moving information, professional and accurate reporting remains essential in preventing panic, countering misinformation, and reinforcing public confidence in security institutions.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to partnership, Governor Yusuf said the Kano State Government would continue working closely with the media and other stakeholders to build a safer, more secure, and prosperous society.
He attributed the progress recorded in the security sector to purposeful leadership, strategic partnerships, institutional coordination, and collective stakeholder support, while pledging sustained investment in security infrastructure and policies aimed at guaranteeing lasting peace, stability, and development in the state.
