National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, has raised concerns about the growing abuse of drugs among young people, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the future of the country’s youth.
He made the remarks when the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, led a management delegation on a courtesy visit ahead of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The visit formed part of NACOC’s efforts to engage key national stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse and to formally invite the Chief Imam to the grand durbar marking World Drug Day, scheduled for June 26 at the UPSA Main Auditorium.
Speaking during the meeting, Sheikh Sharubutu expressed worry over the rising incidence of drug abuse, particularly among the youth, describing it as a growing challenge that could undermine the nation’s future if not addressed urgently.
He noted that the growing abuse of drugs is robbing many young people of their future and called for urgent, collective action to address the problem.
The Chief Imam also praised NACOC’s leadership for its sustained efforts to combat drug abuse and curb illicit drug trafficking across the country.
He encouraged the Commission to remain committed to its public education campaigns and enforcement initiatives aimed at protecting young people from the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Speaking during the visit, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey expressed gratitude to the Chief Imam for receiving the delegation and for his unwavering support for issues of national importance and development.
He expressed deep concern over the growing incidence of drug abuse, warning that it continues to destroy lives and erode the country’s human capital.
The NACOC Director-General noted that tackling the menace requires a collective effort and cannot be left to the Commission alone. He therefore called for stronger collaboration among religious and traditional leaders, parents, educational institutions and other key stakeholders.
He urged all sectors of society to support NACOC’s efforts to combat drug abuse and intensify the fight against illicit drug trafficking across the country.
The delegation included the Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Lawyer Alexander Twum-Barimah, as well as other members of the Commission’s management team.