John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaian youth to stay away from drug abuse and other harmful influences that could threaten their future and undermine national development.
Delivering his Eid al-Adha message at the Independence Square on Wednesday, May 27, President Mahama urged young people to embrace discipline, responsibility and hard work as essential values for personal and national progress.
The President said Ghana’s future depends heavily on a focused and responsible youth population committed to education, entrepreneurship and service to society.
“I especially encourage our young people to remain disciplined, law-abiding, respectful and responsible citizens.
“I urge you to also avoid drug addiction. Our nation needs young people who are focused on education, skills, hard work, entrepreneurship and service to humanity.” - President Mahama
Chief Imam Praised for Moral Leadership
President Mahama also used the occasion to highlight the example of Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, describing the National Chief Imam as a symbol of peace, humility and tolerance whose life should inspire younger generations.
According to the President, Sheikh Sharubutu’s decades-long commitment to peacebuilding and compassion has earned him respect across political and religious lines in Ghana.
“We are blessed to have the enduring example of our revered National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, whose life continues to inspire all Ghanaians through his humility, his compassion, his simplicity, his tolerance and his peacebuilding.” - President Mahama
“Let us emulate these noble virtues in our daily lives.”
Call for Unity and Positive Values
The Eid al-Adha address also focused on peaceful coexistence, moral leadership and national unity.
President Mahama stressed that the country’s social stability and development would depend on citizens, especially the youth, adopting positive values and avoiding activities that could derail their ambitions.
His remarks come amid growing public concern over substance abuse among sections of the youth population and increasing calls for stronger education, counselling and rehabilitation programmes.
The President’s message formed part of nationwide Eid al-Adha celebrations observed by Muslims across Ghana and other parts of the world.
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