The National Youth Authority (NYA) has called on young Ghanaians to shun drug and substance abuse as it brought this year’s National Youth Month celebration to a close with its “Red Means Stop” campaign at the Independence Square in Accra.
The campaign is aimed at educating young people on the dangers associated with drug and substance abuse while encouraging healthier choices and responsible lifestyles.
Addressing participants at the climax, Chief Executive Officer of the NYA, Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq., urged the youth to resist peer pressure and avoid substances that could jeopardise their health, education, relationships and future opportunities.
He emphasised that the fight against substance abuse requires sustained education, advocacy and continuous engagement with young people.
According to him, the NYA will continue to use platforms and activities that resonate with the youth to promote responsible behaviour and encourage them to make choices that contribute to their personal development and the wellbeing of society.
“Red means stop” was used as the central message of the campaign, with the Authority encouraging young people to recognise the dangers of substance abuse and make informed decisions about their lifestyles.
The climax was marked by a blend of entertainment and youth-oriented activities, including music, dance, comedy, skating and biking displays, creating an interactive platform through which the anti-drug message could reach a wider youth audience.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, and Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Alexander Twum-Barimah.
The programme also attracted members of BikeLife and A1 Bikers, while musicians and entertainers, including Medikal, who serves as ambassador for the “Red Means Stop” campaign, MzVee, Sefa, Funny Face and Showboy, entertained patrons.
The NYA said it remains committed to strengthening collaboration with young people and other relevant stakeholders to address substance abuse and equip the next generation with the knowledge and confidence to make healthier and more responsible choices.
By Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey
