Minister Seidu Issifu (M) with Brig Gen Martey (2nd L) and other dignitaries at the meeting
As part of ongoing institutional collaborations to decarbonize government operations and promote environmental sustainability, the Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu, paid a working visit to the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) on Wednesday February 4, 2026.
The visit sought to explore areas of collaboration between the two institutions in advancing environmental sustainability and strengthening national efforts to combat illicit activities.
It also formed part of the minister’s broader stakeholder engagement strategy with key state agencies and selected private sector partners to build strong partnerships that support Ghana’s climate action agenda in line with the Paris Agreement.
Discussions at the meeting focused on the growing links between environmental degradation, climate change, and criminal activities that threaten forest reserves and other ecologically sensitive areas across the country.
Seidu Issifu emphasised that protecting Ghana’s natural environment is closely connected to national security and public safety.
He noted that illegal activities, including illicit crop cultivation and trafficking, often occur in remote and environmentally vulnerable areas, resulting in deforestation, land degradation, and biodiversity loss.
He, therefore, called for closer collaboration between his Office and NACOC to safeguard the environment while strengthening government enforcement efforts.
The Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuaba Martey, briefed the minister on the commission’s mandate, operations, and challenges, particularly difficulties in monitoring hard-to-reach areas where illicit crop cultivation and other illegal activities lead to the destruction of farmlands.
Brigadier General Maxwell Obuaba Martey stated that comprehensive institutional reforms have been implemented to enhance the effectiveness and nationwide impact of NACOC’s operations.
He further noted that plans are in the pipeline to ensure alternative livelihood opportunities are provided for individuals in affected regions involved in illicit drug cultivation.
Both parties expressed their readiness to work with the Office of the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability (OMSCCS) to integrate environmental considerations into enforcement operations and public sensitization programmes.
The two institutions agreed to pursue joint initiatives, including information sharing, coordinated monitoring of high-risk areas, joint training for officers, and public education through print, electronic media, and workshops on the environmental impacts of illegal activities.
They also discussed the use of modern technology to enhance surveillance and environmental protection.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen inter-agency cooperation in support of sustainable development, environmental protection, and national security.
Source:
www.ghanaweb.com