Gov Namadi links crime to drug abuse, calls for urgent action
By Ali Baba-Inuwa
Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has identified drug abuse and youth-related issues as major drivers of crime among the youth, calling for a coordinated and sustained response to curve the menace.
He made this assertion during a courtesy visit by the newly posted Commissioner of Police, CP Haruna Alaba Yahaya, at Government House, Dutse.
The visit provided an opportunity for the commissioner to formally introduce himself to the governor and to brief him on his proposed strategies for strengthening security across the state.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Namadi noted that many of the crimes being recorded nowadays are closely linked to drug abuse, particularly among young people.
“We are aware of the crimes you mentioned. Many of them are linked to youth-related issues and drug abuse,” the governor said.
“Drug abuse, in particular, is a major driver of crime. If we are able to address it, crime will reduce significantly.”
He stated that tackling the challenge would require a combination of enforcement and community-based approaches, including collaboration with key stakeholders.
“We will work with relevant agencies, including NDLEA, and also engage religious leaders and traditional institutions to sensitize the public. Issues like violence over minor disagreements are unacceptable and must be addressed.”
Namadi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, saying that sustaining peace in the state remains a shared responsibility.
“As a government, we are here to support all security agencies… We will also try to create a conducive environment for you to operate,” he said.
He added that the government would also look into infrastructural challenges affecting some police divisions in the state.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, CP Haruna Alaba Yahaya, described his posting as both an honour and a responsibility, assuring the governor of his readiness to maintain and strengthen security across the state.
“My assumption of duty comes with a clear and unwavering mandate to ensure that Jigawa State remains secure for law-abiding citizens and decidedly hostile to criminal elements,” he said.
The commissioner highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen intelligence-led policing, deepen collaboration with other security agencies, and intensify operations against criminal elements across the state, as he also reiterated the importance of public trust in the police.
“Without trust, no police can succeed with members of the public,” he noted.
CP Haruna further disclosed plans to establish a Violent Crime Response Unit in line with directives from the inspector general of police, aimed at enhancing rapid response to security threats.
