The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has stepped up efforts to combat drug abuse in Ghana by engaging the National House of Chiefs in a renewed campaign aimed at addressing the growing threat, particularly among the youth.
At a strategic meeting with the Standing Committee of the National House of Chiefs on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Direc tor-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, underscored the need for urgent and collective action to stem the rising tide of substance abuse in the country.
Brig Gen Mantey outlined some of the Commission’s major achievements over the past year, including key arrests, raids and successful prosecutions aimed at dismantling drug trafficking and abuse networks.
He also used the occasion to formally invite the National House of Chiefs to participate in this year’s World Drug Day celebrations, scheduled for June 26, 2026, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
Warning of the consequences of inaction, the NACOC Director-General said Ghana risks losing an entire generation if decisive steps are not taken to tackle the drug menace.
“The drug menace continues to rise and as a country, we need to collectively tackle it, or else we will lose our future generation to drugs,” he said.
According to Brig Gen Mantey, most drug users in Ghana are between the ages of 20 and 29, a trend he described as worrying due to its implications for national development, productivity and social stability.
He disclosed that cannabis remains the most widely abused substance in the country and called for intensified public education and awareness campaigns.
The NACOC boss appealed to traditional leaders to play a more active role in the fight against drug abuse by supporting early reporting, intelligence sharing and community sensitisation efforts.
“We appeal to our esteemed chiefs to use festivals, durbars and other traditional gatherings to champion anti-drug campaigns and awareness creation,” he stated.
Responding to the appeal, President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, commended NACOC for its efforts and pledged the support of traditional authorities across the country in protecting the youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse.
He also urged the media to dedicate more airtime to drug education and awareness programmes, stressing that sustained public sensitisation is key to winning the fight against drug abuse.
The collaboration between NACOC and the National House of Chiefs reflects a renewed national commitment to tackling the drug menace and safeguarding the future of Ghana’s young population.
