The Kano State Government has unveiled plans to recruit more than 1,600 repentant thugs into its empowerment scheme as part of efforts to sustain peace and promote youth rehabilitation.
Speaking during a reception for youths who recently renounced violence, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the initiative aims to help young people who have abandoned crime rebuild their lives through skills acquisition and economic opportunities.
“These youths have talents that can benefit society if properly guided and supported,” Waiya said, adding that the administration would not neglect anyone willing to embrace a positive change.
He explained that the government’s Safe Corridor Programme—designed to rehabilitate and reintegrate former thugs—has so far enrolled 1,654 youths, with another 2,100 awaiting screening. Beneficiaries will be presented to the governor upon completion of their rehabilitation.
Waiya noted that participants would receive vocational training, startup tools, and mentorship to help them become self-reliant and contribute to Kano’s economic growth.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining peace and creating opportunities for youths to redirect their energy from violence to productive ventures.
