CONADA, partners advocate drug-free society at Kano awareness walk
The Coalition of NGOs Against Drug Abuse (CONADA), in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kano State chapter, on Saturday organised a road walk to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, calling for stronger collective action to combat substance abuse.
The awareness walk, led by the Executive Director of LESPADA, Amb. Maryam Hassan, began along Maiduguri Road and ended at the Kano State Government House.
The event attracted journalists, civil society organisations, youth groups, government agencies and anti-drug advocates, all of whom stressed the need for coordinated efforts to tackle the growing problem of drug abuse, particularly among young people.
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Among the participating organisations were NAWOJ Kano, LESPADA, NACCRAN, YOSPIS, Widi-Jalo Foundation, YAADAI, IYECF, TAFTA, Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa, Visionary Women for Empowerment and Humanitarian Foundation (VWEHF), Martaba FM, Premier Radio, the Kano State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Speaking during the event, Amb. Maryam Hassan described the rising rate of substance abuse among youths as a serious challenge requiring the commitment of governments, families, religious institutions and communities.
“The prevalence of substance abuse among our youths is becoming increasingly worrisome. It is a challenge that demands coordinated efforts from all stakeholders if we are to secure the future of our society,” she said.
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Hassan commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for establishing the Kano State Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, describing the initiative as a significant step towards addressing the menace.
She also welcomed the appointment of two CONADA members—Amb. Maryam Hassan of LESPADA and Hajiya Maryam Ardi Muhammad—to serve on the task force, saying it reflects the government’s recognition of the important role civil society and the media play in public awareness and advocacy.
Hassan urged parents, schools, traditional rulers, religious leaders and relevant government agencies to intensify preventive measures, support rehabilitation programmes and promote youth empowerment as part of efforts to reduce substance abuse.
She emphasized that sustained public enlightenment campaigns and community engagement remain essential in building a healthier, safer and drug-free society.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, was established by the United Nations in 1987 to strengthen global cooperation in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
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