The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq., has called on Ghanaian youth to uphold strong moral values, embrace patriotism and reject substance abuse as the country marks National Youth Month 2026. https://environmentalguidenews.com/wp-admin
Mr. Ayariga made the call during an Islamic Dialogue organised by the NYA at the National Central Mosque as part of activities marking National Youth Month under the theme, “Rebuilding Values, Inspiring Patriotism: Empowering the Youth in the Digital Age.”
The engagement, held in the presence of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, brought together Islamic leaders, youth stakeholders and government officials to discuss the importance of faith, moral values, national unity and ethical leadership in shaping responsible young people.
According to the NYA Boss, National Youth Month provides an important opportunity to engage young people across the country, listen to their concerns and demonstrate that the opportunities and initiatives being created can provide them with new hope and a brighter future.
Mr. Ayariga, however, cautioned that young people could not take full advantage of such opportunities if they fell victim to substance and drug abuse.
He noted that drug abuse could undermine the future of young people and deprive Ghana of their talents, skills and potential contribution to national development.
The NYA Boss therefore called for stronger collaboration among government, religious leaders, families, communities and other stakeholders to create platforms where young people could have their voices heard and receive the guidance and support needed to make responsible choices.
Read ALSO: NDC Spain Commends Ablakwa, Ato Forson, Mutawakilu
“We want to create a platform where young people can have their voices heard and receive the support and guidance they need to stay away from drugs, harmful substances and other practices that can negatively affect their lives and future,” he said.
Mr. Ayariga stressed the need for stakeholders to listen to young people and understand the challenges confronting them, noting that their voices must form an important part of national discussions on youth development.
He further acknowledged the efforts of President John Dramani Mahama, particularly through youth-focused initiatives such as the National Apprenticeship Programme and the Adwumawura Programme, aimed at creating opportunities and improving the livelihoods of young Ghanaians.
The NYA Boss said these interventions, coupled with strong moral values, patriotism and responsible citizenship, could help build a generation of empowered young people capable of contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s development.
The Islamic Dialogue also highlighted the role of religious institutions in promoting moral discipline, peaceful coexistence, national unity and ethical leadership among the youth.
Mr. Ayariga reaffirmed the NYA’s commitment to working with faith-based organisations, traditional and community leaders, government institutions and other stakeholders to empower Ghana’s youth and ensure that National Youth Month translates into meaningful action for young people across the country.
