Delivering a keynote address at the Northern Youth Drug Abuse Prevention Forum held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Radach Lodge Conference Centre, the Minister described drug abuse as a critical threat to the health, safety, and future of young people in the region. The forum was organized by Brightpath Global Foundation in partnership with civil society and private organizations.

Addressing a gathering that included the Executive Director of Brightpath Global Foundation, Students, representatives from civil society organizations, private sector actors, the media, and participants, the Minister commended the organizers for what he termed a “timely and bold initiative.” He noted that the proactive involvement of young leaders, including Queen Tung-Teiya Dahama, in advocating against drug abuse was a positive step toward safeguarding the future of the

region.

The Minister expressed concern over the rising incidence of drug abuse, particularly the misuse of tramadol, across the region, with notable prevalence in rapidly urbanizing areas such as Tamale. He highlighted the far-reaching consequences of the menace, explaining that it not only affects individual users but also disrupts family structures, undermines education, fuels anti-social behavior, and threatens community peace.

“When our youth are consumed by drug abuse, society pays a heavy price,” he emphasized, adding that the forum represented a collective effort to confront the challenge head-on.

He assured participants of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council’s commitment to tackling drug abuse but stressed that no single institution could address the issue alone. According to him, a multi-stakeholder approach involving government agencies, traditional leaders, faith-based organizations, parents, and the youth themselves is essential for achieving lasting results.

The Minister further disclosed that the Northern Regional Security Council has already rolled out several interventions to curb the tramadol menace, particularly in Tamale due to its strategic location and bustling economic activity. These measures include enhanced intelligence gathering to identify and prosecute drug trafficking networks, increased targeted patrols and enforcement operations, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration for rapid response.

Hon. Adolf revealed that special operations, including the formation of a task force dubbed “RED MARIA,” have been introduced to complement ongoing efforts such as “BLAC MARIA,” aimed at disrupting the illegal distribution of drugs. He also encouraged community members to play an active role by reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

While emphasizing the importance of enforcement, the Minister underscored prevention as the most sustainable solution to drug abuse. He lauded the forum’s focus on youth engagement, noting that young people must be empowered to take the lead in influencing their peers and driving behavioral change.

“The youth are not only victims of drug abuse; they are also agents of change,” he stated, urging them to use their voices and platforms to discourage drug use among their peers.

He called on all responsible individuals within communities to intensify public education on the dangers of drug abuse, stressing that it is “dangerous, destructive, and unacceptable.”

The Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to Brightpath Global Foundation and its partners for organizing the forum and expressed optimism that the deliberations would lead to increased awareness and contribute to rehabilitating affected youth.

The Northern Youth Drug Abuse Prevention Forum is expected to generate actionable strategies and strengthen partnerships aimed at addressing drug abuse and promoting healthier lifestyles among young people in the region.