Osman Abdulai Ayariga
The CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, Esq., has called for increased social media campaign on “Red Means Stop”, an initiative that seeks to raise awareness among young people about the harmful effects of drug and substance abuse.
At the climax of the National Youth Month, with “Red Means Stop” campaign at the Independence Square in Accra, Osman Ayariga was of the view that intensifying drug abuse campaigns on social media is necessary because digital platforms widely normalise substance use, serve as illicit marketplaces, and house the young audiences most vulnerable to peer pressure.
He indicated that young people spend hours daily on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, hence the campaigns must meet them where they are.
“I am here to tell you that let us all be agents of the campaign against substance abuse and against Red. Let continue on our social media handles, the bloggers who are here please continue to post the campaign on your various media handles to propagate the word to help us fight it,” he stated.
He said the NYA would continue to leverage platforms and activities that attract and connect with the youth 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 impact their health, education, relationships and future prospects.
The event featured a variety of entertainment and youth-focused activities, including music, dance, comedy, skating and biking shows and other engaging activities, all 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.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke
