Speaking during the launch of the programme on Thursday at the Fele Events Centre in Kano, the state Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated that the initiative is part of a deliberate strategy by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to redirect the energies of young people away from political violence and crime. He noted that the youth were drawn from eight metropolitan local government areas in the state.

The state commissioner for information comrade Ibrahim Waiya addressing the Youth

“This is the third day we are interacting with the youth from the eight metropolitan local governments,” Waiya said. “There is a reason for creation, and the primary one is to worship the Almighty. In that process, we are expected to forbid what is wrong and promote what is right.”

Waiya further emphasized the spiritual and moral principles underpinning the initiative. He said, “The Almighty Allah prohibits killing and harming others. No one should ask you to hurt another person. Politicians who supply you with drugs or weapons are not your friends they are your enemies.”

According to the Commissioner, the Governor’s intention is to help the youth and give them a new sense of purpose. “The Governor of Kano State is willing to help the youth; that is why we have gathered you here today to inform you about our new strategy,” he added. However, he warned, “We will not tolerate lawlessness. We want you to stop thuggery. If they give you money, take it but do not subscribe to their ideas of violence.”

He also warned political actors against using the guise of youth empowerment to foment violence. “We will not allow any politician pretending to support the youth to use them to create chaos in the state. Thuggery is an embarrassment to Kano, and we urge you to desist from it,” Waiya declared.

Also addressing the gathering, respected Islamic scholar Dauda Lokon Makera called on the youths to embrace forgiveness and peace. He urged them to seek spiritual guidance and let go of any past grievances.

One of the rehabilitated youths, Alhaji Nana, also spoke at the event. “Do not allow any politician to use you to cause chaos. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf wants a peaceful Kano, and so does Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II,” Nana said. “They have never instructed anyone to carry arms against their opponents.”

The event was marked by loud ovations from the repentant youths, many of whom publicly declared their decision to renounce thuggery and embrace a peaceful lifestyle. Most of them reiterated their commitment to contributing to a safer and more harmonious Kano.

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