President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaian youth to adopt a life of integrity, cautioning against the use of drugs and shortcuts as he called for discipline and responsible conduct to support national development.
Speaking at the 2026 National Day of Prayer in Accra on Wednesday, July 1, under the theme “Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want,” the President said the country’s future depends on the choices and conduct of its citizens, particularly the youth.
He called on Ghanaians to continue promoting peace, reconciliation and the values that have sustained communities over generations. He also commended public servants for their service and urged them to uphold integrity, professionalism and transparency, noting that public confidence in governance depends on their conduct.
Addressing the security services, President Mahama expressed appreciation for their sacrifice and commitment, urging them to continue safeguarding national peace, which he described as the foundation of development.
He further encouraged business leaders to continue investing, innovating and creating opportunities for young people, assuring them of government’s commitment to maintaining an enabling environment for enterprise to grow.
The President also praised farmers, artisans and workers for their contribution to the economy, describing their efforts as vital to feeding the nation, sustaining industries and driving national progress.
“Your contribution remains invaluable to our national progress and to our young people. You are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; you are already shaping the Ghana of today. And so, dream boldly.
“Acquire knowledge, develop new skills, reject shortcuts, lead lives of integrity, avoid drugs, and believe in yourselves because your country believes in you,” he stated.
President Mahama emphasised that nation-building is a shared responsibility, not the burden of government alone. Citing reflections from the event, he said acts of honesty, kindness, integrity and service by citizens collectively strengthen the republic and its democracy.
