By Rabiu Sanusi
The Kano State Government has established a Youth Council involving youths associated with thuggery as part of efforts to reconcile differences, promote dialogue and find lasting solutions to the growing challenge of youth-related violence across the state.
The initiative was announced by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya who said the council would provide a platform for affected youths to engage in meaningful dialogue, resolve disputes peacefully and build stronger relationships among different youth groups.
According to the Commissioner, the council would operate under the leadership of Malam Abdullahi, alongside other appointed leaders responsible for coordinating its activities and ensuring that its objectives are effectively implemented.
He said several committees had also been constituted to focus on specific areas of intervention, particularly conflict resolution, public awareness and prevention of violence linked to thuggery.
The committees are expected to work closely with youth groups security agencies, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to identify the causes of conflicts, mediate disputes and discourage activities capable of threatening peace and security in the state.
Waiya said the decision was informed by the need to address the destruction of lives and property associated with thuggery-related clashes in some parts of Kano, stressing that the government could not afford to allow the situation to continue unchecked.
He assured that the Kano State Government would work closely with the newly established council and its committees to develop practical and sustainable strategies capable of tackling thuggery and restoring lasting peace across the state.
The Commissioner further appealed to youths to reject violence and embrace peaceful coexistence, noting that their cooperation and active participation were essential to achieving a safer and more stable Kano.
He also urged members of the public and other stakeholders to support the initiative by providing constructive contributions towards resolving youth conflicts saying collective action remained critical to addressing the root causes of thuggery.
Waiya reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to strengthening peace and security describing the engagement of youths in dialogue and reconciliation as a major step towards preventing further violence and building a peaceful future for Kano State.