Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the appointment of public health expert, Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba, as Co-Chair of the Kano State Anti-Drug Abuse Task Force as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s response to substance abuse and related social challenges.
The appointment was announced in a press release issued on Tuesday by the management of the Aminu Magashi Garba Foundation (AMGF), which described the move as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to promoting institutional and multi-sectoral approaches to tackling drug abuse.
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According to the statement, the task force will enhance collaboration among public health experts, civil society organisations, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders in addressing substance abuse across Kano State.
The statement also disclosed that the state government has approved the establishment of a mobile court to ensure the speedy prosecution of drug-related offences and other social crimes.
It added that representatives of the Sharia Commission have been included in the composition of the task force to strengthen coordination and provide a holistic approach to combating drug abuse and its associated social consequences.
Dr. Magashi, a public health physician and health policy expert, has more than three decades of experience in health systems strengthening, health financing, governance and social accountability in Nigeria.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Aminu Magashi Garba Foundation (AMGF) and is the Founder and Coordinator of the Africa Health Budget Network, where he has led initiatives aimed at promoting evidence-based policymaking, strengthening public sector accountability and advancing sustainable health sector reforms.
The statement noted that Dr. Magashi previously chaired the 2023 Kano State Health Transition Committee, which developed the health sector blueprint for the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
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It added that he has continued to provide technical support to policy reforms and multi-sectoral initiatives designed to improve health outcomes and community development in Kano State and across Nigeria.
According to the foundation, the appointment highlights s the Kano State Government’s recognition of the importance of technical expertise, evidence-informed leadership and strategic partnerships in addressing the growing challenge of drug abuse.
The foundation expressed confidence that the task force would strengthen efforts to prevent substance abuse, enhance public awareness and promote safer and healthier communities across the state.
It further reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at improving public health, advancing social accountability and contributing to sustainable development through collaborative partnerships.