65th Independence Anniversary: Kano Showcases Improved Security, Youth Rehabilitation Efforts
Kano State has recorded significant improvements in the security of lives and property over the past two and a half years under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, according to the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya.
Speaking during Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebration in Kano, themed “Strengthening National Security Through Unity and Development”, Waiya attributed the progress to the government’s flagship programme, the Safe Corridor Initiative — The Kano Model, introduced through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs.
The initiative, he explained, was designed as a non-kinetic approach to addressing political thuggery, youth festiveness, and drug abuse in the state. Implemented in partnership with security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the programme provides de-radicalization, counseling, psychosocial support, rehabilitation, empowerment, and reintegration for youths.
Waiya disclosed that the Kano Police Command arrests between 50 and 70 youths weekly over drug abuse and related crimes, while the NDLEA arrested 1,345 suspects in 2024 alone—comprising 1,301 males and 44 females.
“The initiative focuses on two groups,” he said. “First, voluntary repentant youths, including political thugs, are profiled, mentored, rehabilitated, and transformed into peace advocates. Second, drug users and school dropouts are offered counseling, skills training, and educational opportunities to help them reintegrate into society productively.”
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to education as a vital tool in rehabilitating and empowering youths. He noted that the Safe Corridor programme has also helped curb phone snatching, political violence, and other social vices.
The governor further encouraged residents to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), echoing the call of the Kano State Resident Electoral Commissioner.
The anniversary celebration, held at Government House, Kano, was attended by representatives of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, electoral officials, civil society organisations, government functionaries, students, and members of the press
