Paragraph 1: Kano State, a vital hub in Northern Nigeria, is grappling with a complex web of socio-economic and security challenges that threaten its stability and progress. Rising crime rates, including drug abuse, robbery, phone snatching, and child trafficking, have become increasingly prevalent, painting a grim picture of a society struggling to maintain order. These issues, fueled by a perceived erosion of traditional values and a breakdown in family structures, have prompted a collective call to action from influential figures across the state. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Kano’s political, business, religious, and traditional leaders have united under a new initiative spearheaded by the Kano State Elders Advisory Council, demonstrating a shared commitment to addressing these pressing concerns.
Paragraph 2: The Kano State Elders Advisory Council, established with the support of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), represents a powerful coalition of influential voices. This esteemed council boasts a diverse membership, including prominent business magnate Aliko Dangote, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and former governors Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibrahim Shekarau, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Kabiru Gaya. The inclusion of such prominent figures underscores the seriousness of the challenges facing Kano and the collective determination to find lasting solutions. The council’s primary objective is to provide guidance and direction to the state government, leveraging its collective wisdom and experience to navigate the complex issues at hand.
Paragraph 3: At a pivotal meeting held in Kano, the council members engaged in frank discussions about the escalating security concerns and the underlying societal factors contributing to the problems. The meeting highlighted the urgent need to revive core values such as honesty, tolerance, hard work, and moral discipline as essential pillars for a thriving society. The participants acknowledged the breakdown of family and societal structures as a key contributor to the rise in criminal activities. The consensus reached was that a multi-pronged approach, involving government action, community engagement, and a renewed focus on ethical reorientation, is crucial to reversing the negative trends.
Paragraph 4: To translate the council’s vision into concrete action, a 34-member committee comprising experts and community leaders was formed. This committee, chaired by Professor Shehu Galadanchi, with Dr. Faruk Umar, ACF Kano chairman, serving as secretary, will play a crucial role in developing and implementing strategies to address the state’s multifaceted challenges. The committee’s mandate includes engaging with government officials, community representatives, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration and ensure a comprehensive approach to problem-solving. This collaborative effort aims to bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation, ensuring that solutions are effectively translated into tangible improvements.
Paragraph 5: The initiative has garnered significant support from key stakeholders, including prominent figures like Aliko Dangote and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who have pledged their commitment to collaborating with the council. Dangote, in a letter of support, described the council’s resolutions as timely and critical for restoring principled leadership and moral guardianship within the community. Jibrin praised the forum for uniting diverse political factions and pledged his support for addressing unemployment, poverty, and other social ills. Former Governor Ibrahim Shekarau highlighted the importance of such initiatives in curbing hooliganism, while former Governor Ganduje also expressed his backing for the council’s endeavors. The collective endorsement from influential figures across various sectors reflects the broad-based support for the initiative and its potential to bring about positive change.
Paragraph 6: The fight against drug abuse, a major concern in Kano, received particular attention during the meeting. Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), highlighted the alarming rate of drug abuse in the state, emphasizing the need for collective action. Alhaji A.A. Rano, a prominent philanthropist, has demonstrated his commitment to the initiative by donating N50 million to support the AKHUWAT initiative, a program aimed at empowering small businesses and alleviating poverty. Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, underscored the importance of unity among Northern leaders, stressing that insecurity in the North-West region can only be effectively addressed through collective action and family reorientation. The combined efforts of prominent individuals, government agencies, and community organizations represent a concerted effort to tackle the deep-rooted challenges facing Kano and restore it to a path of stability and prosperity.
