Medikal named ambassador for National Youth Authority’s ‘Red Means Stop’ drug campaign Medikal has been appointed as ambassador for the National Youth Authority’ drug campaign.

Ghanaian rapper Medikal (real name Samuel Adu Frimpong) has been officially appointed as an ambassador for the National Youth Authority’s (NYA) “Red Means Stop” anti-drug campaign. The announcement was made by the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, on February 26, 2026.

The campaign targets the rising abuse of a dangerous synthetic drug mixture commonly known as “red” (often a combination involving tramadol, tapentadol, carisoprodol, or similar opioids), which has become a significant concern among Ghanaian youth. “Red Means Stop” forms part of the broader Ghana Against Drugs (GAD) initiative under the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, aimed at educating young people on the severe health risks, addiction potential, and life-ruining consequences of substance abuse.

In a strategic effort to make the messaging more relatable and impactful, the NYA selected Medikal due to his massive influence in the music scene and strong connection with the youth demographic. As ambassador, he is expected to:

– Promote anti-drug messages through his music, performances, and music videos
– Participate in school outreaches and direct engagements with students
– Use his social media platforms and public appearances to advocate for prevention
– Support peer-led advocacy and youth mobilization efforts

The appointment has already generated buzz across social media platforms like Instagram, X, and Facebook, with fans and commentators sharing mixed reactions—some praising the move for leveraging a popular figure to reach at-risk groups, while others jokingly reference Medikal’s past persona or lyrics in humorous commentary.

This development comes amid ongoing national efforts to curb the youth drug crisis, with officials highlighting statistics like high lifetime illicit substance use in certain regions and the emergence of potent drug combinations like “red” as urgent threats.

The campaign encourages all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to take a firm stand: Red Means Stop—say no to drugs to protect futures and communities.