Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for a more proactive and adaptive approach to preventing illicit drug use in Ghana during the 2024 World Drug Day commemoration at the Accra International Conference Centre.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the increasing threat posed by synthetic opioids, stressing the need for the country to evolve its strategies in response to emerging drug trends.
While acknowledging Ghana’s progress in tackling conventional narcotics, the Vice President urged continued vigilance and reinforced the importance of staying ahead of new challenges.
She commended the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) for its dedication to curbing drug abuse and trafficking, citing recent operations that led to significant drug seizures and the dismantling of criminal syndicates.
“Stakeholders must support the Commission with necessary resources, training, and tools to continue combating this evolving threat,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stated.
She also stressed the importance of addressing substance use disorders with empathy, praising the operationalization of the Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation Fund as a step in the right direction.
“The Fund’s effective implementation will be key in offering those affected the help they need,” she added.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that combating drug abuse and trafficking requires a collaborative effort, urging everyone to invest in prevention.
“The evidence is clear—prevention is key,” she said, aligning with the theme of World Drug Day 2025. “We must recognize the urgency of this issue and take practical measures to protect our future.”
