The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Gushegu, Abdul-Hafiz Adam, has called on religious leaders to take deliberate steps to address the growing moral decadence among the youth by consistently incorporating youth welfare and development messages into their sermons and teachings.
He also advised young people in the municipality to stay away from illicit drugs, particularly tramadol and other harmful substances, warning that such practices could destroy their future and undermine their contribution to national development.
Mr Adam made the remarks when he attended a church service dubbed "Swollen Sunday" on the theme "Choose" at the Jesus Is The Answer Church at Gushegu.
He said religious institutions remained important agents of moral formation and social transformation, stressing that churches and other faith-based organisations must play a lead role in guiding young people towards responsible and productive lives.
According to the MCE, the increasing involvement of some young people in drug abuse and other social vices required a collective response from parents, religious leaders, schools, and community stakeholders.
"Religious leaders have a unique opportunity to influence society positively, particularly the youth.
Matters affecting young people should be given greater attention during sermons and other religious engagements," he said.
Mr Adam further used the occasion to advocate religious tolerance, improved sanitation, quality education, peace, and unity, describing them as critical ingredients for the development of the Gushegu Municipality and the country.
He urged residents to live peacefully and work together irrespective of their religious, ethnic, or political affiliations, noting that sustainable development could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and social cohesion.
The MCE also appealed to religious leaders to continue offering prayers for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the municipality and the nation.
For his part, the Head Pastor of Jesus Is The Answer Church, Pastor Opoku Agyemang, expressed gratitude to the MCE for honouring the church's invitation and sharing insights into issues affecting the municipality.
He said the church appreciated the MCE's commitment to community development and pledged its support through prayers and moral guidance.
The congregation later offered prayers for Mr Adam and the leadership of the Gushegu Municipal Assembly, asking for divine wisdom, guidance, and strength in the discharge of their responsibilities.
