The Ghana Navy has participated in the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking organised by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra, on Friday 26 June 2026.
The Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, at the event.
The event, held under the theme "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," featured presentations, cultural and choreography performances, and brought together key stakeholders to raise awareness, strengthen collaboration, and promote innovative responses to the growing threat of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
The event was attended by government officials, senior officers of the Ghana Armed Forces and the Sister Security Services, personnel of the security services, the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, traditional leaders, and students, with the Paramount Chief (Omanhene) of the Breman Traditional Area, Odeefuo Amoakwa Buadu VIII, serving as Chairman of the occasion.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour and Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to intensifying efforts against drug abuse and illicit trafficking through stronger policies, enhanced security cooperation, and sustained public education, while urging all Ghanaians to support the national fight against the transnational threat.
Also delivering his remarks, the Director General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, highlighted the Commission's continued expansion of prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community-based care programmes to achieve a drug-free society. He encouraged individuals battling substance abuse to seek professional help while calling on all citizens to protect the youth and support the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
On his part, the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, affirmed the Ministry's commitment to strengthening institutions and security operations to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking while mobilising national support for the fight.
Similarly, the Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, underscored that drug abuse threatens learning, destroys opportunities, and undermines the nation's future, adding that the Ministry remains committed to enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on drugs in schools. He urged students to abstain from substance abuse and remain committed to their education and personal development.
The event concluded with a collective reaffirmation of commitment by stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and intensify efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the country.
Story By: Winifred Laryea and Rosemary Apekey
Picture By Ebenezer Adu-Saforo
