The Upper East Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has identified drug abuse as one of the major social challenges affecting the region, particularly among young people.
The concern was raised during a donation exercise by the Commission to the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital in Bolgatanga on Thursday, June 25, as part of activities marking this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day.
Addressing the media, the Upper East Regional Commander of NACOC, Senior Narcotics Control Officer (SNCO) Abdul-Aziz Saeed, said although comprehensive data on substance abuse in the region remains limited, the problem continues to persist, with users increasingly adopting new and dangerous methods of drug consumption.
“People are gradually moving away from the traditional smoking of cannabis and are now mixing energy drinks with substances such as tramadol and other drugs,” he said.
SNCO Saeed disclosed that the Regional Command organized a seminar for counsellors as part of activities commemorating World Drug Day, recognizing the critical role they play in supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse.
He stressed that the Commission would continue to roll out interventions aimed at protecting the future of young people, who constitute the majority of substance abuse cases recorded by the Commission.
“We remain committed to safeguarding the future of our youth through education, awareness creation, and stakeholder collaboration to reduce substance abuse in our communities,” he stated.
Also speaking to the media, the Deputy Regional Commander, Narcotics Control Officer (NCO) Marshal Abuchow, warned that the future of the youth was at risk if urgent measures were not taken to address the growing menace.
“The youth are the hope of the future. If we allow them to engage in drug abuse, then where does the future of our society lie?” he questioned.
NCO Abuchow expressed concern over the negative consequences of substance abuse, noting that it not only affects the health and wellbeing of young people but also limits their employment opportunities.
He cited recent recruitment exercises into the security services, where a number of applicants reportedly failed drug screening tests.
“We have to tell our young people frankly that if they aspire to serve Ghana in any of these capacities, they must avoid the use of drugs,” he said.
He emphasized that the fight against substance abuse requires a collective effort and pledged the Commission’s continued collaboration with other stakeholders to curb the problem.
NCO Abuchow also appealed to members of the public to volunteer information on individuals involved in the sale and distribution of illicit drugs.
“We encourage the public to report persons engaged in drug peddling so that appropriate action can be taken. When we are able to cut the supply, we can significantly reduce the usage,” he said.
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