George Opare Addo is the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment
The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has extended warm Valentine’s Day wishes to young people across Ghana while urging them to mark the occasion with responsibility and self-respect.
In a statement issued on February 13, 2026, ahead of February 14 celebrations, the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo encouraged Ghana’s youth to celebrate love, friendship and togetherness in ways that uplift and empower them.
The ministry, however, warned them to avoid behaviours that could jeopardise their health and future prospects.
“Valentine’s Day should be a celebration of love that builds, not destroys. I urge our youth to cherish themselves, respect themselves, respect their bodies and commit to choices that secure their future”.
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The minister warned that drug and substance abuse can harm both body and mind and undermine the aspirations of young people, many of whom are destined to be future leaders of the nation.
He also expressed concern about rising rates of teenage pregnancies and HIV infections among youth, describing these trends as alarming threats to their wellbeing, education and future opportunities.
The minister further advised youth to avoid offering sex as a gift and instead suggested more positive gestures like giving chocolates to loved ones.
“Let us also distinguish this day as a day free of substance abuse, including alcohol; let us remember not to offer sex as a gift on this day but offer chocolate to a loved one,” the minister stated.
The Ministry also appealed to parents, guardians, educators and community leaders to play an active role in guiding young people toward positive choices, especially during a period of heightened social pressures.
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