Stop drugs and get a job – Bibiani Chief advises youth

Nana Abu Gyaabeng, Chief of Bibiani New Town

The Chief of Bibiani New Town, Nana Abu Gyaabeng, has expressed his readiness to facilitate job opportunities for the youth in his community only when they abandon the use of illicit drugs such as marijuana and tramadol.

Addressing concerns about the rising trend of drug abuse, the traditional leader described the situation as a major barrier preventing many young people from securing employment in lucrative business sectors and professional fields.

In an interview with the correspondent, Nana Abu Gyaabeng revealed that he has already engaged local mining companies in high-level discussions to create training and job opportunities for the youth. However, he noted that the companies’ mandatory drug-testing policies have disqualified several applicants.

“I am always ready to help the youth secure jobs. We have mining companies and many other vocations here where we can support them. But the problem is that many of them run away from the tests or fail them because of drug abuse. If they continue with these bad habits, it will be very difficult to help them,” he lamented.

He urged the youth to reflect on their future, adding that if he himself had engaged in drug abuse during his youthful days, he would never have attained his current status as a traditional leader.

Mr. Isaac Anyimah, an aspiring NDC Deputy Constituency Chairman for Bibiani-Anwiaso-Bekwai, commended the Chief for his proactive stance. He called on fellow politicians to emulate the Chief by prioritizing the welfare and moral development of the youth.

Mr. Anyimah pledged that if elected, his primary focus would be youth empowerment and job creation to steer young people away from social vices.