The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has called on the Christian Council of Ghana to take a leading role in restoring discipline, patriotism and moral values among the country’s youth, describing the church as one of the most influential institutions capable of shaping the nation’s future.
Speaking during an engagement with the Council as part of National Youth Month, Mr Ayariga said Ghana’s moral renewal requires the active involvement of faith-based organisations alongside government and families.
Addressing the leadership of the Christian Council directly, Mr Ayariga acknowledged the Council’s longstanding contribution to national development through its churches, schools and community outreach programmes.
He noted that while government can formulate policies and provide opportunities for young people, the church possesses a unique ability to influence attitudes, behaviour and conscience at the grassroots level.
“I want to make a special appeal to the Christian Council in this regard. You have something government cannot replicate—pulpits in nearly every community, radio and television platforms, and a membership that reaches deep into homes across this country. Kindly use them. Preach discipline. Teach respect for authority and lawful process, not just from the pulpit but through your Sunday schools, youth fellowships and media programmes,” he appealed.
The NYA CEO further urged the Council to communicate with young people in ways they can easily understand and relate to, saying consistent guidance is needed to address the growing decline in values among the youth.
“Advise our young people directly, consistently, and in language they’ll actually listen to. Government can pass policies, but it’s the church, and the family, that shape conscience—and right now, conscience is exactly what needs rebuilding,” he stated.
Mr Ayariga reaffirmed the National Youth Authority’s commitment to partnering with religious institutions to nurture responsible and patriotic young Ghanaians.
He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between government, the church, families and schools would help raise a generation defined by integrity, respect, peaceful dialogue and a shared commitment to national development.