President John Dramani Mahama has called for urgent and coordinated action against individuals involved in the distribution and sale of tramadol and other illicit drugs, particularly in the Northern Region, warning that the growing drug menace is destroying the future of the country’s youth.
Addressing the Northern Regional House of Chiefs at the Presidency on Friday, 15 May 2026, the President expressed concern about the rising abuse of narcotic substances among young people, noting that the situation has reached a level that requires immediate national attention.
He stressed that the abuse of tramadol is not only affecting individuals but also destabilising families and undermining community safety and development.
“The abuse of Tramadol and other narcotic substances is destroying lives, destabilising families, and undermining community security,” he said.
President Mahama called on traditional leaders, youth groups, and security agencies to work together to identify and expose those behind the supply chain of illegal drugs, noting that users should be treated as victims while dealers must be pursued and brought to justice.
According to him, those involved in bulk supply and distribution of such substances often operate within communities and must be identified and rooted out to stop the flow of drugs to the youth.
“We know these people live amongst us. They take delivery of bulk supplies of Tramadol and sell them to our children. We must identify them and root them out so that we can stop the supply within our traditional areas,” he stated.
The President further encouraged chiefs to collaborate closely with the Ghana Police Service and local youth groups to strengthen surveillance and intelligence-sharing mechanisms aimed at dismantling drug networks.
He emphasised that tackling drug abuse requires a community-based approach, combining law enforcement action with education, sensitisation, and rehabilitation support for affected persons.
President Mahama reiterated that mental health and substance abuse can no longer be neglected in national policy, urging increased investment in treatment and rehabilitation facilities, particularly in underserved regions.
He assured stakeholders of government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that address the root causes of drug abuse, while also strengthening security operations to clamp down on traffickers.
The President’s remarks form part of broader efforts to address social challenges affecting youth development and to promote safer, healthier communities across the country.
Source: Mubarak Yakubu
