AREWA Young Leaders Initiative, a group of youths from the 19 northern states and Federal Capital Territory campaigning for a drug-free north, says it plans to train 5,000 youths on ICT in the north east.

Malam Ibrahim Yusuf, Drug Free Campaign Coordinator, disclosed this in Gombe on Thursday after a rally which terminated at the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu’s palace.

The coordinator said the training was to discourage drug consumption among youths by engaging them in meaningful ventures.

He said the training would be in collaboration with Microsoft ward and it will commence before May.

The campaign coordinator said the group would also establish a skill acquisition centre in Gombe to serve the entire region.

Yusuf said the campaign was one of the key outcomes of the 2nd Arewa Youth Leadership Summit held in January at the Nigeria Air force Conference centre Abuja.

He said drug abuse in Northern region, especially among young people was an issue of concern which needed to be tackled.

He said the project was intended to be continuous in the span for five years.

“The campaign was structured and tailored to be holistic and all encompassing with series of activities that are knitted together, for the benefit of youth,” he said.

The coordinator said key influential statesmen would be identified to disabuse the mind of young people on drug and inspire them for leadership.

Also, Mr. Aliyu Adole, Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Gombe, said the prevalence of drug abuse among youths in Gombe was high.
He called on the emir to facilitate the furnishing of the rehabilitation centre in Gombe.

“We have a befitting structure which was constructed by the state government but not equipped with standard facilities,” he said.

In his response, Shehu said it was his responsibility as a father to all to ensure drug free society.

He appealed to youths in the states to desist from social vices capable of destroying their future.

“Drug abuse kills development because the population engaged in it is supposed to be the future leaders of the country.

“I want to assure you of my commitment as a father to all, in ensuring drug free society,” he said. (NAN)

– Mar. 22, 2018 @ 19:54 GMT |