Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi has approved establishing a task force to end the state’s drug epidemic.

The task force will review and provide informed policies and programmes on drug and substance abuse in Kebbi.

The approval is contained in a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Babale Umar-Yauri, issued Tuesday.

According to the circular, a retired assistant inspector general of police, Umar Ambursa, is the task force chairman.

The governor’s wife, Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, will serve as the task force’s patron.

“The task force is mandated to assist in reviewing and providing informed comments on policies and programmes relating to drug and substance abuse,” stated the circular. “It will also facilitate and assist in respect of policy and programme initiatives in the fight against drug and substance abuse.”

The committee will recommend and support conferences, seminars, and meetings to prevent, treat, and reduce drug abuse.

“The committee will also routinely recommend and support the award of scholarships and sponsorships in basic and advance training in matters relating to addictions, as well as to encourage research and publications,” it said.

Members of the committee include representatives of the Nigerian police, NDLEA, NSCDC, NAFDAC, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the Nigerian Medical Association, and the ministries of justice, education and health.

Others are representatives of ministries of Youth and Sports Development and Women and Social Development, NGOs and civil society organisations.

The task force members are also drawn from the Council of Ulamas, the Christian Association of Nigeria, youth and student organisations, and Gwandu, Argungu, Yauri and Zuru emirates.

(NAN)