Correctional Facility Novelty Match : NDLEA Kano command wage war against drugs abuse through sports . As Yaro Yaro thrills fans
By Jamilu Uba Adamu
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA Kano command has organized an awareness and sensitization novelty football match at the Correctional facility located in Kurmawa in the ancient city of Kano.
The match formed part of the activities aimed at sensitizing inmates on the dangers and the far reaching consequences of drug abuse.
Our correspondent reports that, the event was enlivened by the novelty football match between the inmates of the Kurmawa Correctional Centre and the visiting NDLEA team, popularly known as the Marwa Boys.
The novelty football match had ended 2–1 in favour of the inmates.
The event served as the platform for recreation and engagement, also as an avenue for fostering mutual understanding, teamwork, and positive interaction between the officers and men of the command and the inmates.
The match was used to further reinforced the broader message of rehabilitation, discipline, and the promotion of healthy living free from drug abuse.
In his remarks, NDLEA ‘s, CSN Ibrahim Zubairu highlighted how substance abuse destroys lives, fuels crime, and undermines personal and societal development, urging the inmates to take advantage of the reformative opportunities available to them.
He explained that, in many cases, the misuse of drugs has led to situations that ended the lives of loved ones, leaving lasting trauma and regret behind.
He therefore urged the inmates to learn from such realities, make better choices, and avoid actions that could cause harm to themselves and those closest to them.
Earlier in his remarks, the Kano State NDLEA Commander, CN Dahiru Lawan, warned the inmates to steer clear of drug abuse due to its severe and damaging consequences.
He emphasized that involvement in drugs does not only destroys physical and mental health, but also leads to broken families, lost opportunities, and lifelong regret.
CN Dahiru Lawan also announced a personal donation of One Hundred Thousand Naira (₦100,000.00) to support the team.
In addition, he disclosed that the Kano State Command of the NDLEA had presented various items to the inmates’ team, including sacks of gari, sets of jerseys, footballs, and other essential materials.
He noted that the gesture was part of the Command’s commitment to encouraging positive engagement, recreation, and rehabilitation among inmates, while further strengthening the message of healthy living and discipline without drug abuse.
Also speaking, the Officer-in-Charge of the Kurmawa Correctional Centre, DCC Rambo Isa, commended the NDLEA Commander and his team for the visit, describing it as timely and impactful.
He expressed his appreciation for the sensitization programme and thanked the NDLEA delegation for the various gifts presented to the inmates, noting that such gestures contribute positively to rehabilitation efforts and morale within the facility.
The correctional center boss finally announced an additional cash donation of Thirty Thousand Naira (₦30,000.00) to the team.
It would be recalled that series of event form part of the broader series of matches organized by the NDLEA Sports officer, Jamilu Uba Adamu, as a deliberate effort to educate the public, particularly the youths about the dangers of drug abuse.
Through these initiatives, he aims not only to raise awareness but also to inspire young people to make positive choices, avoid harmful substances, and embrace healthy, productive lifestyles.
The occasion was made even more vibrant and memorable by the participation of former international footballer and Kano Pillars legend and coach, Ahmed Garba, popularly known as Yaro Yaro, who thrilled the crowd by playing for both sides on two separate occasions.
His presence not only added excitement to the matches but also inspired young players and spectators alike, highlighting the unifying power of sports in promoting positive messages.

