- Osman Ayariga calls on Ghanaian youth to say no to substance abuse
- Message delivered at Leavers Party in the Park, a youth-focused awareness event
- Celebrities, including Medikal, supported the cause
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has called on young people across Ghana to reject substance abuse and adopt healthier, purpose-driven lifestyles.
He delivered this message at the Leavers Party in the Park, an event organised by High School Clique and GLE Connect, where he joined hundreds of young people in an outreach campaign focused on raising awareness about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
Speaking passionately during the event, Ayariga stressed that the fight against drug misuse, particularly among the youth, demands consistent education, collaboration, and personal responsibility.
“No to substance abuse! Red means stop! Stay away from drugs!” he declared, reinforcing the campaign’s core message.
Following the event, Ayariga took to his official Facebook page to thank the artists and influencers who supported the campaign, including popular rapper Medikal and his team.
“Our campaign against substance abuse took us to the Leavers Party in the Park. Thanks to all the musicians and celebrities who endorsed the campaign—most especially Red!” he posted.
The “Red Means Stop” initiative is part of the NYA’s broader strategy to combat the growing threat of opioid and drug addiction in Ghana. The campaign seeks to educate young people on the health, social, and legal dangers of drug use, while inspiring them to make positive life choices.
Ayariga reminded the youth that the decisions they make today will shape their future.
“Drugs destroy dreams. You are too valuable to waste your potential. Choose life, choose purpose, and say a firm no to drugs,” he urged.
As the campaign gathers momentum, the NYA has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with schools, youth groups, and community leaders to spread the message:
“Red Means Stop: Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.”
