FNPH DAWANAU, KANO DRUG TASK FORCE STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE
The Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Dawanau, Kano, has strengthened its collaboration with the Kano State Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as part of efforts to tackle the growing challenge of substance abuse in the state.
The Medical Director of the Hospital, Prof. Auwalu Sani Salihu, led the Hospital’s management team on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Task Force, Barr. Muhuyi Magaji, where both parties discussed strategies for a coordinated response to drug abuse, illicit trafficking, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community awareness.
Prof. Salihu described substance abuse as both a public health and security challenge, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between healthcare providers, law-enforcement agencies, communities, and other stakeholders.
«“As a specialist hospital, FNPH Dawanau is committed to providing assessment, detoxification, treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation for persons with substance use disorders.»
«“This partnership will help establish an effective referral pathway for individuals who require medical and rehabilitation services, while strengthening joint prevention and public sensitization efforts across Kano State,” he said.»
Responding, Barr. Muhuyi Magaji welcomed the Hospital’s partnership, describing FNPH Dawanau as an important technical and medical partner in the fight against substance abuse.
He noted that enforcement alone cannot address the problem, emphasizing the importance of prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, community engagement, and public education.
According to him, the Task Force is considering establishing ad-hoc centres across Kano State’s three senatorial zones—North, Central and South—to bring services closer to affected communities.
The Chairman further disclosed that the Task Force is engaging market associations, traders, youths, and other stakeholders, while working with relevant government agencies to ensure compliance with existing laws.
Both institutions agreed to establish a Joint Technical Committee to coordinate areas of collaboration, including referral pathways, prevention initiatives, community sensitization, and other joint programmes.
The partners also resolved to intensify statewide awareness campaigns in schools, markets, motor parks, and communities to educate the public on the dangers of substance abuse and encourage early intervention and treatment.
The Hospital and the Task Force called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, schools, market associations, and the general public to support the campaign for a drug-free, healthy, and secure Kano State.
Signed:
Asmau Salisu Gwadabe,
Head, Information and Protocol Unit,
Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Dawanau, Kano
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