The Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, has called for the strict enforcement of environmental protection laws to address flooding, illegal mining, poor sanitation, and other environmental challenges confronting the country.
He made the call during the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly’s observance of the 2026 National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving held in Sekondi under the national theme, “Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want.”
The gathering brought together government officials, traditional leaders, heads of departments, religious leaders, security agencies and residents to offer prayers for the nation while reflecting on the collective responsibility of citizens in promoting national development and safeguarding Ghana’s peace and prosperity.
Addressing the congregation, Hon. Nelson said the recent flooding experienced in several parts of the country serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting environmental responsibilities. He attributed the recurring disasters to indiscriminate littering, illegal mining activities, the obstruction of natural waterways, poor sanitation practices, uncontrolled urbanisation, and widespread disregard for development control protocols and spatial planning regulations.
According to the Regional Minister, these challenges highlight the urgent need for a national reawakening towards environmental stewardship, civic discipline and respect for the laws that govern land use and community development. He stressed that stronger enforcement of planning regulations, responsible waste management practices and greater public compliance with environmental laws are critical to preventing future disasters.
Hon. Nelson further urged citizens to embrace responsibility, accountability and sustainable practices in every aspect of national life, noting that everyone has a role to play in protecting communities and ensuring orderly development. While sympathising with victims of the recent floods, he encouraged Ghanaians to see the unfortunate incidents as an opportunity to recommit themselves to preserving the country’s natural resources for future generations.
The Regional Minister also reminded participants to remain grateful for the peace, democratic stability and religious harmony Ghana continues to enjoy despite prevailing socio-economic challenges. He called on all citizens to work together to preserve these national blessings while contributing meaningfully towards building a better Ghana.
The Metropolitan Chief Executive of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Hon. Frederick Festus Faidoo, also urged citizens to embrace the values of integrity, accountability and patriotism as essential foundations for national development.
He noted that Ghana’s progress cannot be achieved with outdated mindsets or compromised ethical standards, stressing that meaningful transformation begins with rebuilding the nation’s moral foundation.
Hon. Faidoo explained that resetting the country’s values requires a conscious return to the principles of integrity, accountability, patriotism, honest labour and communal responsibility that have long shaped Ghana’s identity. He encouraged citizens to demonstrate honesty in their workplaces, uphold ethical conduct in public and private life, and contribute positively to national development.
The MCE further appealed to residents of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis to support the Assembly’s efforts by maintaining clean surroundings, respecting public property and protecting the natural environment. He added that effective leadership must be guided by transparency and humility while citizens equally demonstrate responsible, law-abiding behaviour to foster sustainable development.
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving was observed across the country to unite Ghanaians in prayer while encouraging renewed commitment to the values that promote peace, unity, discipline and national progress.