The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has called for stronger collaboration with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to intensify public education and awareness campaigns aimed at addressing substance abuse among young people.
The appeal was made when the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, led a delegation to pay a courtesy call on the leadership of the GJA at the International Press Centre in Accra on June 10, 2026.
The visit formed part of preparations for the 2026 World Drug Day commemoration and was also aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two institutions in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Speaking during the meeting, Brig. Gen. Mantey expressed concern about the increasing rate of substance abuse among students and young people, describing the trend as worrying.
According to him, many young people engage in drug abuse without fully understanding the harmful effects on their health, education and future prospects.
He noted that NACOC has intensified educational outreach programmes in schools, religious institutions, workplaces and communities across the country to help prevent drug abuse and promote healthy lifestyles.
Brig. Gen. Mantey also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enforcing drug laws and prosecuting individuals involved in drug trafficking and related offences.
He stressed that the media remains a critical partner in shaping public opinion and educating the youth on the dangers associated with substance abuse.
Responding, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Dwumfour, acknowledged the growing threat of substance abuse, particularly among students in some senior high schools.
He assured NACOC of the Association’s readiness to support awareness campaigns and promote responsible reporting on drug-related issues.
The meeting also afforded both institutions the opportunity to discuss collaborative strategies ahead of this year’s World Drug Day celebration, which is themed: “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
