Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama commissioned officer cadets into the Ghana Armed Forces during a January 30, 2026, ceremony at Ranger Baba Parade Square, Whistler Barracks, Teshie, Accra. His remarks have been edited for space and clarity.
The security environment in our subregion remains complicated and volatile. Violent extremism, terrorism and transnational crime continue to pose serious threats, particularly along our northern border.
Globally, the rise of nonstate actors and asymmetric warfare has reshaped the nature of security challenges. These realities demand a comprehensive and coordinated national response. Security cannot be seen as a sole responsibility of the armed forces and security agencies. It is a shared national duty. Citizens, communities, traditional authorities, civil society and government must work together to protect the peace and stability we all cherish.
I therefore urge all Ghanaians to remain vigilant and security conscious in safeguarding our nation’s peace.
As we celebrate our graduating cadets, we do so against the backdrop of Ghana’s proud legacy in international peace support operations since 1960, when Ghana first participated in a United Nations mission in the Republic of the Congo. Our nation has remained steadfast in its commitment to global peace and security.
Today, Ghana is among the leading troop-contributing countries to U.N. peacekeeping missions. Our men and women serve with distinction in 15 missions worldwide under the U.N., the African Union and ECOWAS [Economic Community of West African States].
From Lebanon to South Sudan and from Abyei to Somalia, Ghanaian peacekeepers continue to earn global respect for their professionalism, discipline and respect for human dignity.
I assure you that transparency, fairness and merit will continue to guide the selection of personnel for peace support operations, ensuring that only the most qualified represent our nation abroad.
Exposure to conflict environments has reinforced the Ghana Armed Forces’ deep respect for constitutional rule and democratic governance. In a subregion challenged by unconstitutional changes of government, our armed forces remain firm defenders of our democracy, civilian authority and the rule of law.
To our soon-to-be-commissioned officers, your duty extends beyond combat readiness. You are guardians of peace, justice and national unity. Serve with courage, humility and professionalism.
Strengthening the operational readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces remains a No. 1 priority for my administration. We’re investing in modern equipment, advanced training and improved welfare to respond effectively to terrorism, piracy and cross-border crime. Plans are well advanced to acquire new helicopters to enhance air mobility of our Air Force and rapid response capabilities.
Over the next three years, approximately 12,000 new personnel will be recruited nationwide, supported by the establishment of forward operating bases in strategic border areas. These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to a professional, resilient and well-equipped armed forces.
Graduating cadets, today marks a defining moment in your lives. In a few moments, you will no longer be officer cadets, but commissioned officers of the Ghana Armed Forces. Leadership is not about rank or privilege. It is about responsibility, service and sacrifice.
I urge you to lead with integrity, uphold courage in adversity, show compassion in command, inspire loyalty among your men, command respect and honor the traditions of the Ghana Armed Forces.