PRINPAG Partners NACOC to Step Up National Fight against Drug Abuse, Illicit Trafficking
The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has renewed its collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to strengthen media support for Ghana’s national campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
On Monday, October 20, 2025, PRINPAG executives paid a courtesy call on the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier-General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, to discuss strategies for deeper cooperation between the media and the Commission.
Brigadier-General Mantey commended PRINPAG for its proactive stance and willingness to partner in addressing the growing threat of substance abuse, particularly among the youth.
“We acknowledge your contributions as the media in the fight against drug use in Ghana. Drug abuse among the youth is eroding the country’s future, and we must work together to tackle this challenge head-on,” he stated.
He expressed concern about the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs, blaming irresponsible parenting and social media influence as key factors exacerbating the crisis. Brig Gen Mantey assured that under his leadership, NACOC would enforce the law rigorously, regardless of social status, while calling for sustained media participation in nationwide education campaigns.
He also revealed that NACOC, in collaboration with the Ghana Standards Authority, will soon organize training and public education programmes for journalists on the new cannabis regulations currently before Parliament. The initiative aims to improve media understanding of the legal framework and promote accurate, responsible reporting on narcotics issues.
Representing PRINPAG, President David Tamakloe reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting NACOC through impactful journalism and continuous public sensitization.
“As editors and news publishers, we are the eyes and ears of the public. We see what is happening on the streets regarding drug use and trade, and we are equally concerned. We believe this collaboration will help us better understand the issues and report more effectively on them,” Mr. Tamakloe said.
He further noted that PRINPAG members would welcome capacity-building opportunities to strengthen their knowledge of narcotics and public health reporting, describing NACOC’s support in this area as “highly valuable.”
The Public Affairs Officer of NACOC, Nana Osei Nkwantabisa I, assured PRINPAG of the Commission’s commitment to fostering a structured, long-term partnership with the media to ensure effective collaboration on future initiatives.
Both institutions agreed to deepen engagement and explore practical ways to enhance public awareness, transparency, and responsible journalism in the national fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
About PRINPAG
The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) is a professional body representing journalists, editors, and publishers from private print and online media outlets. The Association is committed to promoting press freedom, ethical journalism, and national development through responsible reporting and advocacy.
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