AA Zaura Engages Islamic Scholars to Combat Drug Abuse, Thuggery in Kano

In a renewed effort to tackle the rising tide of drug abuse and thuggery among youth in Kano State, renowned businessman and philanthropist, Abdussalam Abdulkarim Zaura (AA Zaura), has held a high-level engagement with prominent Islamic scholars to chart a path toward a more sustainable and morally upright society. The consultative session, which forms part […]

In a renewed effort to tackle the rising tide of drug abuse and thuggery among youth in Kano State, renowned businessman and philanthropist, Abdussalam Abdulkarim Zaura (AA Zaura), has held a high-level engagement with prominent Islamic scholars to chart a path toward a more sustainable and morally upright society.

The consultative session, which forms part of an ongoing campaign titled “Living Straight to Be Straight,” aims to rehabilitate youths involved in substance abuse and political violence, while restoring their dignity and giving them renewed purpose in life.

Speaking during the meeting, AA Zaura emphasized the critical role of Islamic scholars (Ulamas) in influencing societal values, saying their voices remain powerful tools in guiding young people away from destructive habits.

“The Ulamas are the voices of the people and the voices of God,” Zaura said. “One Imam can transform hundreds of lives through a single sermon. That’s why they are key stakeholders in this project.”

Zaura explained that the project began last week with a series of engagements with individuals involved in substance abuse and street violence.

The next strategic step, he noted, is to incorporate religious leaders who understand both the root causes and solutions to the crisis.

“Today, we had a critical discussion with the scholars, and we all agreed to form a committee among them. This committee will brainstorm practical, faith-based solutions to address the issues from their origins,” he stated.

“So far, the initiative has achieved “maximum cooperation” from both former street gangs and scholars, according to Zaura.

He disclosed that over 6,000 individuals from across multiple local governments have voluntarily participated in the sensitization programme, expressing willingness to abandon thuggery and embrace rehabilitation.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive. These youths are ready to drop drugs, to work, and to live responsibly. We are giving them hope. They’re beginning to see that society still cares about them,” he added.

Zaura also announced that the next phase will involve traditional rulers such as district and ward heads, who are in close contact with affected communities. In addition, plans are underway to engage women, especially those in homes where drug abuse is increasingly prevalent.

“Women are stakeholders too. Many of them are directly affected or have close relatives involved in substance abuse. Their inclusion is critical to the success of this mission,” he said.

In a strong message to fellow politicians, Zaura condemned the use of drugs and street gangs for political gain.

“As someone who has been in politics for years, I’ve never encouraged the use of drugs or thugs for political purposes,” he stressed. “We must stop this practice. These youths are someone’s children. Politics must be about building lives, not destroying them.”

Zaura concluded by reaffirming that this campaign is not a political move, but a moral and humanitarian crusade to save Kano’s youth from further decay. He called on the government and other stakeholders to support the initiative and ensure that meaningful change is achieved.

“This is a responsibility that belongs to all of us — not just Zaura. The government must join. The people must join. If we don’t fix this now, we risk losing the soul of our society,” he warned.