Niger inaugurates committee to curb illicit drug use among youths

The Niger government has set up a 16-member committee to look into the menace of drug use among youths in the state.

Sani Bello, Niger governor, inaugurated the committee on Friday in Minna, the state capital.

The committee has Ahmed Ketso, deputy governor of Niger, as its chairman.

According to Bello, the setup of the committee will address the concerns raised during the recent uprising involving youths of the state, which resulted in the destruction of properties in Minna.

Following the violence which broke out in Minna last week which resulted in looting and destruction, the state government restricted the movement of commercial motorcycles and tricycles as part of efforts to restore order.

It is not exactly clear what led to the recent crisis, but some residents claim it was a clash involving some youths.

The committee is expected to perform interim operations for six months.

Representatives were selected from the police, directorate of state service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The committee promised to leave no stone unturned in the fight against the consumption of illicit drugs.

The committee also pledged to partner with youth groups and associations at different levels, as well as traditional and religious leaders.