President Mahama Urges Ghanaian Youth to Reject Drugs, Embrace Integrity and Hard Work

Edited by: Solomon Kwabena Nana-Ansah – Paaps 

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaian youth to uphold integrity, reject substance abuse, and avoid shortcuts to success, urging them instead to embrace discipline, hard work, and responsible citizenship as the foundation for 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 Ghana’s future depends largely on the values, decisions, and conduct of its citizens, particularly the youth.

He encouraged Ghanaians to promote peace, reconciliation, and the enduring values that have strengthened communities over the years. President Mahama also praised public servants for their dedication and urged them to uphold integrity, professionalism, and transparency, stressing that public confidence in government is built on ethical leadership and accountable service.

Addressing members of the security services, the President acknowledged their sacrifice and commitment to safeguarding the nation, urging them to remain vigilant in preserving the peace and stability essential for sustainable development.

President Mahama further appealed to business leaders to continue investing, innovating, and creating employment opportunities for young people, assuring them of government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for businesses to grow and thrive.

He also commended farmers, artisans, and workers for their invaluable contributions to Ghana’s economy, describing their efforts as critical to ensuring food security, sustaining industries, and driving national progress.

Delivering a direct message to the youth, the President said they are already playing a vital role in shaping the country’s future.

“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. 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 said.

He concluded by emphasizing that nation-building is a shared responsibility that extends beyond government, noting that every act of honesty, kindness, integrity, and service by citizens strengthens Ghana’s democracy and contributes to building the nation all Ghanaians aspire to see.