President John Dramani Mahama has officially inaugurated the new Ghana Armed Forces Council, with Vice-President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang serving as Chairperson. The swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Ministry of Defence in Accra.
The newly constituted council has been entrusted with the crucial task of providing strategic leadership and oversight to ensure that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) remains a modern, disciplined, and effective institution. The council’s responsibilities include upholding the highest standards of governance, professionalism, and accountability within the military while safeguarding the welfare of service members who dedicate their lives to protecting the nation.
The council members are:
Vice-President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang (Chairperson)
Edward Kofi Omane Boamah
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka
Mr. Daniel Addo
Mr. Fuseini Iddrisu
Nancy Dakwa Ampofo
In his address, President Mahama charged the council members to approach their duties with wisdom, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to national service. He emphasized that their decisions would significantly influence the future trajectory of the Ghana Armed Forces.
A Commitment to Modernization and Welfare
President Mahama assured the council of his administration’s commitment to equipping the military with the tools and resources necessary for modernization. He outlined several key initiatives aimed at transforming the Armed Forces, including:
1. Capacity Building: Increasing training programs to enhance the expertise of personnel, equipping them to address both traditional and emerging threats.
2. Modern Military Techniques: Investing in advanced technologies and strategies to strengthen Ghana’s national defense.
3. Infrastructure Development: Upgrading barracks, training facilities, and logistical systems to meet modern standards.
4. Improved Welfare Systems: Implementing robust support structures for military personnel and their families, recognizing the importance of their well-being on and off the battlefield.
Strengthening Partnerships and Tackling Challenges
The President underscored Ghana’s dedication to collaborating with regional organizations such as ECOWAS and the African Union, as well as international allies, to confront global security challenges.
He called on the council to set a high bar for ethical leadership within the Armed Forces. “Corruption, misconduct, and abuse of power must have no place in our military. Your leadership must inspire confidence, fairness, and trust, both within the Armed Forces and among the Ghanaian people,” President Mahama stressed.
The President expressed confidence in the council’s ability to steer the Armed Forces toward greater efficiency and discipline. He reminded them that their role is not only to ensure a secure nation but also to uphold the principles that make the military an institution of pride and honor for all Ghanaians.
The new council’s work will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Ghana Armed Forces, fostering an environment of excellence, integrity, and service to the nation.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
