The Member of Parliament (MP) for Walewale in the North East Region, Dr Mahama Tia Abdul Kabiru, has announced an ambitious plan to set up a state-of-the-art recording studio aimed at nurturing local talent and addressing the growing menace of youth involvement in drug abuse and peddling.

Speaking at the 6th edition of the regional Music Awards, held in Walewale, Dr K.B. said the initiative is part of a broader youth empowerment and skills development programme that seeks to use creative arts as a tool for social change.

“As a Member of Parliament, I have dedicated myself and my meagre resources to supporting the industry. So, I have acquired state-of-the-art recording equipment to establish a studio for the people of North East and the industry,” the MP disclosed.

He continued, “It is my belief that this recording studio is going to make the North East Region the hub of music, creativity, and good music for the world.”

Dr Kabiru added that aside from honing the skills in music and spoken word, the infrastructure is expected to help in addressing the growing problem of drug abuse among the youth.

“Today, I’m tasking the sector to see how we position ourselves to fighting the menace of illicit drug use and armed robbery in this region.” He stated.

“As a Member of Parliament, I’m giving my fullest support to this industry to ensuring that, we use the industry to fight drugs and crime in the North East Region. “

The project is designed to offer a positive alternative, a path to creative and professional development.

The studio, which will be fully equipped with modern audio and video recording technologies, is expected to be completed in a few months and will serve as a training and production hub for musicians, sound engineers, and content creators in Walewale and surrounding communities.

Dr K.B emphasised that the facility will not only focus on entertainment but also education and awareness.

Plans are in place to collaborate with local NGOs, schools, and religious organisations to use music and creative content as tools for anti-drug campaigns and personal development programmes.

Community members have praised the initiative, with many describing it as “a timely intervention.”

The project is expected to create jobs, promote local culture, and provide a safe space for youth engagement.

The MP hinted that additional projects in visual arts and digital media may follow, depending on the success of the studios.