By Edward Dankwah (Stringer)
Accra, June 27, GNA – Mr. Muntaka Mubarak, Minister for the Interior, has called for renewed national commitment and collective action to confront the growing threat of illicit drugs and related criminal activities in Ghana.
He said illicit drug trade continued to thrive by exploiting vulnerable systems and targeting impressionable minds for profit, adding that the effects of drug abuse extended far beyond statistics on seizures and arrests.
The Minister was speaking at the International Day Against Drug Abuse And Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) 2026, on the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses, in Accra.”
He said this year’s theme challenged governments, institutions, and citizens to reflect on the evolving nature of the global drug problem while adopting innovative and creative responses to tackle it.
Mr. Mubarak said the devastating impact of drugs could be seen in broken families, shattered dreams, and communities burdened by insecurity and despair.
He stressed that as Ghana’s economy expanded and its global connections deepened, the country must remain vigilant in protecting the safety and moral integrity of society.
“The Ministry for the Interior remains firmly committed to strengthening the institutions entrusted with protecting our nation from the threats posed by illicit drugs and related criminal activities,” he added.
He commended the Commission and its partner security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in combating drug-related offences across the country.
The Minister said the efforts of the institutions had significantly enhanced Ghana’s capacity to detect, disrupt, and deter illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
The Minister particularly praised the Director-General, management, and staff of NACOC, as well as collaborating institutions, for what he described as exemplary service and sacrifice in protecting the country.
Mr. Mubarak also singled out the Chief Justice for supporting the establishment of a special court to handle narcotics-related cases, while applauding the Attorney-General for granting prosecutorial powers to NACOC to prosecute its own cases.
While emphasizing the importance of law enforcement, the Interior Minister noted that sustainable progress in the fight against drugs could only be achieved if society upheld strong moral values and collective responsibility.
He said the responsibility to combat drug abuse did not rest solely on institutions, but also on parents, teachers, faith-based organizations, traditional leaders, and opinion leaders who all had important roles to play in shaping attitudes and guiding responsible behaviour among the youth.
Mr. Mubarak urged students to protect their future by staying away from drugs and making choices that reflected their potential and ambitions.
“Do not allow drugs to diminish your ambition, cloud your judgment, or divert you from your purpose,” he advised.
He called on all stakeholders to work together in building communities where healthy lifestyles were encouraged, personal responsibility upheld, and the welfare of future generations protected.
Mr. Mubarak reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a safer and healthier society through strengthened collaboration and sustained efforts against drug abuse and trafficking.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade