The Upper East Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Senior Narcotics Control Officer Saeed Abdul-Aziz, has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, communities and stakeholders to curb drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the region.
He made the call at the Commission’s Annual Get-Together and Awards Night held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Tap Hotel in Bolgatanga.
Addressing officers, partner institutions and invited guests, SNCO Abdul-Aziz described drug abuse as a shared threat that goes beyond individual users to affect families, communities and public safety.
“When drugs enter our communities, they do not just affect the user. They destabilize families, fuel crime and threaten the very fabric of our society,” he said. “This is not a battle one institution can fight alone. We must work together if we are to win.”
He commended the officers of the Commission and sister security agencies for their dedication in 2025, noting that intensified public education and intelligence-led operations had helped raise awareness of the dangers posed by narcotic substances.
“All the units within the Commission have worked hard to carry out our mandate. We have stepped up sensitisation on the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking because the safety of our streets and the future of our youth depend on it,” he stated.
SNCO Abdul-Aziz also announced that the Commission had partnered with the Presbyterian Psychiatric Clinic in Bolgatanga to provide counselling services for drug users, describing rehabilitation as a critical part of the fight.
“We do this not only to enforce the law but to help people recover and reintegrate. Above all, we must always stand in for each other,” he added, calling on officers to remain united and committed “for the love of Mother Ghana.”
The Upper East Regional Minister, Akamugri Donatus Atanga, whose speech was read by the Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, Roland Atanga Ayoo, praised the Commission for its work but warned that drug and substance abuse among the youth was rising in parts of the region.
“Drug abuse poses a serious threat to public safety, productivity, family cohesion and the future of our young people,” the statement said. “The fight against drugs must go beyond enforcement to include prevention, education, rehabilitation and strong community partnerships.”
The Regional Minister urged the Commission to deepen collaboration with schools, traditional authorities, youth groups, health institutions, faith-based organisations and the media, stressing that a people-centred approach was essential.
“The fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking cannot be won by enforcement alone. It requires a whole-of-society approach anchored in leadership and shared responsibility,” the statement added.
As part of the event, some officers were honoured for their contributions in 2025, with Narcotics Detection Officer Richard Hormenoo emerging as the Overall Best Worker. He received a plaque and citation.
A journalist with ApexNewsGh, Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, was also recognised for his documentary titled ‘Swallowed by Drugs’, which highlights the growing problem of illicit drug use among the youth.
The event ended with a renewed call for sustained partnership and vigilance as the Commission prepares to intensify its fight against drug abuse and trafficking in 2026.
A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joshua Asaah | Bolgatanga
