NGO Organizes 2-Day Workshop to Train Youths on Peacebuilding in Kano as State Task Force Arrests 74 Suspected Thugs

By Salisu Hamisu Ali

A non-governmental organization, Elevators Initiative for Community Peace and Development, has organized a two-day “Youth for Peace” workshop to address the rising menace of phone snatching, thuggery, and drug abuse in Kano State.

The workshop brought together participants from various communities, equipping them with skills on peacebuilding and strategies to engage stakeholders in fostering a more peaceful society.

Speaking to our correspondent, the Acting Executive Director of the Elevators Initiative, Mansur Kurugu, stated that the primary aim of the workshop was to train young peacebuilders on how to promote harmony at a time when Kano is grappling with insecurity, particularly youth-related crimes.

“These challenges have led to the establishment of the Kano State Task Force on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation by the government. That is why we organized this workshop—to empower young people to lead local efforts in mitigating these issues,” Kurugu said.

He added that the initiative aims to build informed young individuals with the capacity and mindset to tackle insecurity through non-violent means.

“We expect to see young people develop innovative strategies to engage their communities, especially the youth, in peacebuilding efforts. The goal is to create a centralized initiative that fosters harmony in society,” he added.

Kurugu further revealed that over 30 participants, including women, were engaged in the capacity-building training.

“This is just one of many workshops we plan to conduct. We also have a lineup of activities in collaboration with international partners and government agencies to support the Kano State Government in addressing insecurity,” he said.

The Chairman of the Kano State Task Force on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, Dr. Yusuf Kofar Mata, who is also the Commissioner for Science, Innovation, and Technology, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the state.

He stated that since the task force was inaugurated by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, it has recorded significant successes in combating crime.

“We have made progress in intercepting illegal drugs, arresting suspected thugs, and recovering weapons,” Dr. Kofar Mata said.

“Since we began operations, we have arrested over 74 suspected thugs, who are currently under investigation. We commend security agencies for their efforts in this regard,” he added.

According to him, there has been a noticeable decline in thuggery and other social vices in the state.

Dr. Kofar Mata assured that the state government is committed to working with NGOs to tackle crime, promising full rehabilitation for repentant thugs after screening by the NDLEA.

“The state government is also set to reopen the Kiru Reformatory Centre and establish a state-owned security outfit to enhance peace and security,” he revealed.

Barrister Nura Ahmad Muhammad, Executive Director of Mufarka Youth Development Initiative, emphasized the need for the government to bring stakeholders together to address security threats. He also urged lawmakers to enact stricter laws to punish culprits involved in phone snatching and thuggery.

Some participants expressed appreciation to the organizers and pledged to apply the knowledge gained to promote peace at the community level.

During the workshop, they shared their personal experiences in peacebuilding and suggested practical solutions to tackle thuggery and phone snatching.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants and key stakeholders