The National Chief Imam of Ghana, His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, has urged young people to stay away from drug abuse and other social vices, stressing that discipline and strong moral values are essential to their personal development and the progress of the nation.

The revered Islamic leader made the remarks on Friday, August 7, when the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, paid a courtesy call on him at the Ghana National Mosque Complex in Accra as part of stakeholder engagements ahead of the upcoming National Youth Conference.

During the meeting, Sheikh Dr. Sharubutu encouraged the NYA to intensify efforts aimed at educating and empowering young people, noting that substance abuse continues to pose a serious threat to the country’s future.

He called on the youth to embrace education, hard work and integrity while avoiding drugs and other negative influences that could derail their ambitions.

For his part, Mr Ayariga said the visit was to seek the blessings, prayers and support of the National Chief Imam for the successful organisation of the National Youth Conference.

He noted that the conference is intended to bring together young people from diverse backgrounds to discuss issues affecting them and develop practical solutions to advance youth development in Ghana.

Mr Ayariga reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to working with religious and traditional leaders to promote positive values, patriotism and responsible citizenship among the country’s youth.

The National Chief Imam offered prayers for the success of the conference and for peace, unity and continued progress for Ghana.