Kano State has recorded notable improvements in the security of lives and property over the past two and a half years, 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 credited the progress to the Safe Corridor Initiative — also known as The Kano Model — introduced by the state government through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs.
The initiative adopts a non-kinetic approach to tackling political thuggery, youth restiveness, and drug abuse. It is being implemented in collaboration with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The programme provides de-radicalization, counseling, psychosocial support, rehabilitation, empowerment, and reintegration opportunities for young people.
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According to Waiya, the Kano Police Command arrests between 50 and 70 youths weekly for drug abuse and related crimes, while the NDLEA apprehended 1,345 suspects in 2024 alone — 1,301 males and 44 females.
“The initiative focuses on two groups,” he explained. “Voluntary repentant youths, including political thugs, are profiled, mentored, rehabilitated, and transformed into peace advocates. Drug users and school dropouts are also offered counseling, vocational training, and educational opportunities to reintegrate productively into society.”
Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the event, the Chief of Staff, Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani, reiterated the administration’s commitment to education as a tool for youth rehabilitation and empowerment. He noted that the programme has also helped reduce incidents of phone snatching, political violence, and other social vices.
The governor further urged residents to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), echoing the call of the Kano State Resident Electoral Commissioner.
The anniversary event, held at Government House, Kano, drew participants including representatives of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, electoral officials, civil society organisations, government functionaries, students, and members of the press.