The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse in Ghana by engaging the National House of Chiefs in a renewed national partnership aimed at protecting young people from substance abuse.
At a meeting with the Standing Committee of the National House of Chiefs in Accra, the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, raised concern over the rising incidence of drug abuse, particularly among young people aged 20 to 29 years.
He said the situation poses a serious threat to national development, productivity, and social stability, warning that urgent collective action is needed to prevent what he described as a looming crisis.
Brig Gen Mantey highlighted NACOC’s recent operations, including arrests, raids, and prosecutions, which he said have disrupted several drug trafficking and abuse networks across the country.
He disclosed that cannabis remains the most widely abused drug in Ghana and stressed the need for intensified public education and community sensitisation.
The NACOC Director-General also used the occasion to invite the National House of Chiefs to participate in this year’s World Drug Day celebration scheduled for June 26, 2026, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
He urged traditional leaders to leverage their influence within communities to support anti-drug campaigns through festivals, durbars, and other traditional gatherings.
Responding, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, commended NACOC for its efforts and pledged the full support of traditional authorities in the fight against drug abuse.
He also called on the media to play a more active role in public education by dedicating airtime to drug awareness campaigns.
The engagement signals a strengthened national collaboration between NACOC and traditional authorities to address the growing drug menace and safeguard Ghana’s youth.
By Peter Quao Adattor/paqmediagh
