Governor says Kano has the capacity and political will to establish state police as he inaugurates anti-drug task force.
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared that the state is fully prepared for the establishment of state police, describing the initiative as critical to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and protecting lives and property.
The governor made the declaration on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Inter-Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking at the Government House in Kano.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf said the proposed state police would complement the Nigeria Police Force rather than compete with it.
“The proposed State Police will complement, not compete with, the Nigeria Police Force. Both institutions share the responsibility of protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order,” he said.
The governor stressed the need for greater collaboration among security agencies to improve intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response capabilities and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.
“These structures must operate as partners to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response, and build public confidence in law enforcement,” he added.
Yusuf expressed confidence that Kano possesses the institutional capacity, human resources and political will required to successfully operate a state police system once the necessary constitutional amendments are completed.
“Kano State has the institutional capacity, human resources, and political will to establish and sustain State Police when the necessary constitutional frameworks are in place,” he stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at improving security across the country.
“We will support every legitimate initiative that strengthens Nigeria’s security architecture and creates a safer environment for citizens,” the governor said.
Speaking on the newly inaugurated task force, Yusuf said its establishment demonstrates the government’s determination to tackle drug abuse and illicit trafficking through coordinated efforts among security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
“This task force shows our commitment to addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking through strong collaboration among security agencies and stakeholders,” he noted.
He urged members of the task force to discharge their responsibilities with discipline, professionalism and integrity.
“The fight against drug abuse requires sustained commitment, professionalism, and effective inter-agency cooperation,” Yusuf added.