The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has called on social media influencers and public figures to support the Authority’s “Red Means Stop” campaign aimed at tackling drug abuse among young people.

He made the appeal on Thursday, March 12, 2026, during the official appointment of Ghanaian musician Medikal as an ambassador for the anti-drug campaign at the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.

Mr Ayariga said the fight against substance abuse, particularly the growing use of the synthetic drug known as “Red”, requires the collective efforts of influential personalities who have strong connections with the youth.

According to him, social media influencers, musicians and content creators have a critical role to play in shaping the attitudes and decisions of young people.

He therefore encouraged them to use their platforms to spread awareness about the dangers associated with drug abuse and to promote healthy lifestyles among the youth.

Mr Ayariga noted that the “Red Means Stop” campaign forms part of a broader national strategy to address the rising cases of substance abuse among young people in Ghana.

He explained that the campaign seeks to educate the public on the harmful effects of drugs while empowering young people to make responsible choices that safeguard their future.

The NYA CEO commended Medikal for accepting to serve as an ambassador for the campaign, describing the musician’s decision to support the initiative without financial reward as commendable.

Mr Ayariga expressed hope that the musician’s involvement would inspire other influential personalities to also join the campaign and contribute to the national effort to combat drug abuse among the youth.