SUBEB Kano Strengthens Fight Against Drug Abuse in Schools

By JB Danlami

Stakeholders in the education and anti-drug sectors have renewed their commitment to safeguarding school environments as the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with partners, convened a one-day workshop on drug-free schools at Ado Bayero City Fandanka, Kumbotso Local Government Area

Delivering a keynote address, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Malam Yusuf Kabir, emphasized that drug abuse in schools is not just a behavioural concern but a critical issue affecting learning outcomes, student safety, and the future of children.

He noted that increasing exposure of young learners to substances and locally mixed drugs poses a serious threat within communities. According to him, easy access through informal vendors, peer influence, and lack of awareness has made the situation more urgent.

“Drug abuse directly undermines our efforts in improving education. It affects concentration, academic performance, and can lead to school dropout. This is not just a health issue—it is an education issue,” he stated.

The SUBEB Chairman further highlighted ongoing efforts by the Board to integrate safeguarding into school supervision and management systems across Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs), ensuring a coordinated and system-wide response.

Also speaking at the event, the Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano State Command, CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to collaborating with schools and communities to curb drug abuse among young people. He stressed the importance of awareness, prevention, and early intervention in tackling the menace.

Similarly, the Commandant of War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), Umar H Abdullahi, underscored the role of WADA marshals as frontline actors in identifying early warning signs among students, engaging them constructively, and linking schools with parents and communities.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Kano State Accountability Forum On Education (K-SAFE), Dr Auwalu Halilu, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, noting that sustainable solutions can only be achieved when communities take ownership of the fight against drug abuse.

Participants at the workshop included education administrators, WADA marshals, and other key stakeholders. Discussions focused on strengthening capacity for early detection, improving coordination among institutions, and promoting preventive strategies within schools and communities.

The workshop concluded with a collective call for action, urging stakeholders to move beyond dialogue and implement practical measures that will ensure safe, supportive, and drug-free learning environments for all children.