The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has appealed to the Christian Council of Ghana to spearhead efforts to restore discipline, patriotism and moral values among the country’s youth, describing the Church as one of the most influential institutions in shaping the nation’s future.
Speaking during an engagement with the Council as part of National Youth Month, Mr Ayariga said rebuilding Ghana’s moral foundation requires the active involvement of faith-based organisations alongside government, families and schools.
Addressing the leadership of the Christian Council, he acknowledged the organisation’s long-standing contribution to national development through its churches, schools and community outreach programmes.
According to him, while government can formulate policies and create opportunities for young people, the Church has a unique ability to influence attitudes, behaviour and conscience at the grassroots level.
“I want to make a special appeal to the Christian Council in this regard. You have something government cannot replicate—pulpits in nearly every community, radio and television platforms, and a membership that reaches deep into homes across this country,” he said.
“Kindly use them. Preach discipline. Teach respect for authority and lawful process, not just from the pulpit but through your Sunday schools, youth fellowships and media programmes.”
Mr Ayariga further urged the Council to communicate with young people in ways they can easily understand, stressing that consistent guidance is needed to address the growing decline in values among the youth.
“Advise our young people directly, consistently, and in language they’ll actually listen to. Government can pass policies, but it’s the church, and the family, that shape conscience—and right now, conscience is exactly what needs rebuilding,” he added.
The NYA CEO reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to partnering with religious institutions to nurture responsible, disciplined and patriotic young Ghanaians.
He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between government, the Church, families and schools would help raise a generation defined by integrity, respect, peaceful dialogue and a shared commitment to national development.
