The Yobe State Government has unveiled plans to establish a State Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation Agency to combat the rising challenge of substance abuse in the state.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Justice, Saleh Samanja, during a one-day public lecture on a Drug-Free Learning Environment organised by the Coalition of Northern Groups at Federal Polytechnic Damaturu.

Samanja said the proposed agency would coordinate drug prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration programmes aimed at strengthening public health, supporting youth development, and promoting social stability across Yobe State.

“We have drafted the bill and submitted it to the State House of Assembly. It has passed the first and second readings and is now at the committee stage. A public hearing is scheduled for March 8 or 9. After that, the House will pass it into law, and the Governor will sign it promptly,” he said.

According to him, the establishment of the agency is a priority for the state government and is expected to significantly reduce drug use, particularly among young people. The government also plans to set up rehabilitation centres for drug users across the state.

Speaking earlier, the National Coordinator of the Coalition of Northern Groups, Jamilu Chiranchi, said the lecture was aimed at sensitising students to the dangers of drug abuse. He warned that widespread drug use was gradually eroding the values traditionally associated with Northern Nigerian youths.

“Campuses are not just academic spaces. They shape future policymakers, security personnel, and leaders who will safeguard the nation. If we allow negative behaviours to thrive in these environments, we will inevitably produce leaders who cannot foster progress or stability,” Chiranchi stated.