The Borno State Government said it has arrested 73 underage children for alleged involvement in substance abuse and related street crimes.
The arrests were made across several locations, including Bulabulin Kasuwa and Gwange Kasan Gada, within Maiduguri metropolis.
The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development led the operation as part of a crackdown on youth drug abuse.
Officials described the action as a bold step to address rising drug use and criminal behavior among children in Borno.
A viral social media video showing a young boy admitting to drug use prompted the coordinated response by state authorities.
The arrested minors, aged between 12 and 15 years, were reportedly engaged in various forms of substance abuse and street crimes.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, confirmed the arrests in an official statement on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
She said the children were safely removed from the streets and transferred to the Bulumkuttu Rehabilitation Centre in Maiduguri.
The state government has commenced comprehensive rehabilitation, counselling, and reintegration programs for the affected minors.
Gambo assured that the children would receive proper care, therapy, and education during their rehabilitation process.
While addressing the children before their transfer, Gambo expressed concern over increasing drug use among Borno’s youth.
“You deserve a better life than this,” she told the children. “We are not here to punish you, but to support you.”
She said Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s administration remains committed to protecting young lives from destructive habits and environments.
The Commissioner stressed that the state would not stand by and watch the future of its youth be destroyed.
She reiterated the government’s resolve to rescue more at-risk children across Borno communities.
Gambo noted that the ministry would continue working closely with law enforcement, community leaders, and NGOs to prevent further abuse.
The Ministry plans more outreach and rehabilitation campaigns in rural and urban areas of the state.
Security agencies have been directed to monitor known drug hotspots and support ongoing child protection efforts.
Residents have been urged to report suspicious activities involving children to relevant authorities for quick intervention.
Community engagement sessions are also scheduled to address the root causes of child endangerment and street crime.
Borno State has seen a surge in street-level drug abuse cases, particularly among displaced and vulnerable children.
Officials said the state’s rehabilitation centres are being strengthened to handle the growing number of rescued children.
The Borno Government reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating drug abuse and securing a better future for its youth.