The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, Esq., has called for an intensified social media campaign on “Red Means Stop,” an initiative aimed at raising awareness among young people about the harmful effects of drug and substance abuse.
Speaking at the climax of National Youth Month, marked with the “Red Means Stop” campaign at Independence Square in Accra, Mr Ayariga said intensifying anti-drug campaigns on social media was necessary because digital platforms widely normalise substance use, serve as illicit marketplaces and host young audiences who are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure.
He indicated that young people spend hours daily on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, making it necessary for the campaign to reach them where they are.
“I am here to tell you that we should all be agents of the campaign against substance abuse and against ‘Red.’ Let us continue the campaign on our social media handles.
The bloggers who are here, please continue to post the campaign on your various media platforms to propagate the message and help us fight it,” he stated.
He said the NYA would continue to leverage platforms and activities that attract and connect with young people to promote healthy, responsible and productive lifestyles.
Mr Ayariga further urged young people to resist peer pressure and stay away from drugs and other harmful substances that could negatively affect their health, education, relationships and future prospects.
The event featured a variety of entertainment and youth-focused activities, including music, dance, comedy, skating, biking displays and other engaging activities designed to connect with young people.
Present at the event were the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, and the Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination at the Narcotics Control Commission, Mr Alexander Twum-Barimah.
The celebration also featured performances and appearances by bikers from BikeLife and A1 Bikers, as well as the ambassador for the “Red Means Stop” campaign, Medikal. Other artistes and entertainers who thrilled patrons included MzVee, Sefa, Funny Face and Showboy.
Prince Fiifi Yorke
