The National Security Coordinator, COP Osman Abdul Razak, has described the newly commissioned National Signals Bureau (NSB) facility in Koforidua as a “major milestone in Ghana’s national security framework.”
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, COP Osman said the new command office represents “the activation of a critical nerve in our national security architecture.”
“This event is not merely the opening of a building or the installation of surveillance systems,” he explained. “It is the activation of a critical nerve in our national security architecture.”
Mandate and Modern Role of the NSB
COP Osman outlined the legal and operational mandate of the Bureau under Act 1040, explaining that it is responsible for monitoring, collecting, analyzing, and securely disseminating intelligence from cyberspace, electronic media, and electromagnetic signals.
“The Bureau is mandated to counter threats to national security and well-being,” he noted. “It also helps to prevent and deter the commission of serious offences and maintains a nationwide information system that strengthens our intelligence and communication networks.”
He further cautioned against the growing misuse of digital platforms and social media to promote activities that undermine national unity and security.
“In recent times, we have seen an upsurge in the use of social media and digital platforms to promote acts that do not adhere to the benefits of our democracy,” he said. “Cybercriminals are exploiting Ghana’s digital space to defraud citizens and institutions. Violent extremists and terrorists can also capitalize on this.”
A Leap in National Security Infrastructure
The National Security Coordinator commended the Director-General and staff of the National Signals Bureau for their professionalism and commitment to expanding the agency’s reach and capabilities.
“This building meets all the requirements of our 21st-century capabilities when it comes to intelligence,” he said. “I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the Director-General and his able staff for this magnificent job.”
He revealed that the NSB, which previously operated only three regional offices, is now expanding to seven before the end of the year.
“This office in Koforidua is the first of four new regional offices to be inaugurated this year,” he announced. “It is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the National Security Secretariat and a clear declaration of our resolve to build a Ghana that is safe, secure, and resilient in this digital age.”
Supporting the 24-Hour Economy Agenda
COP Osman disclosed that the new command centre will operate 24 hours a day, aligning with the government’s 24-Hour Economy Program led by President John Dramani Mahama.
“The operation of the National Signals Bureau will run a 24-hour service throughout the week,” he said. “This baptizes the government’s intention to implement the 24-Hour Economy. A 24-hour economy requires that we are ahead, positioning ourselves to secure the environment for continuous business operations.”
He emphasized that national security is a shared responsibility, urging collaboration among all security agencies.
“The security of the region is not that of the NSB alone,” COP Osman stressed. “It is a collective responsibility. I urge the Police, Fire Service, Armed Forces, and all agencies to make maximum use of this facility by collaborating closely.”
Harnessing Local Talent for National Development
COP Osman called for the recruitment of young, tech-savvy professionals from the Eastern Region to manage and sustain the facility.
“Koforidua and the Eastern Region boast of bright graduates from several tertiary institutions,” he said.
“The human resources we need are right here. Therefore, the NSB leadership should prioritize recruiting and training talented individuals directly from this region.”
He explained that this approach would not only create jobs but also strengthen local ownership and capacity in national security.
“This is not just about providing jobs,” he explained. “It is about building local capacity and fostering a sense of ownership. Local knowledge combined with world-class training will create a formidable security asset.”
Warning Against Attacks on Security Personnel
The National Security Coordinator issued a strong warning against attacks on security officers and installations, stating that such actions would no longer be tolerated.
“It ends now,” he declared. “All those who think they can take the law into their own hands to attack security personnel or facilities will not go unpunished.”
He also urged security officers to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
“We will hold you to a higher edge,” he cautioned. “You must discharge your duties with integrity so that you do not call for the distrust of the general public.”
A Future of Secure and Smart Governance
COP Osman concluded that the commissioning of the NSB’s Eastern Regional Office represents a new phase in Ghana’s approach to national security, one that combines technology, intelligence, and human capacity.
“The inauguration of this office affirms that we are establishing a more robust and forward-looking security apparatus,” he said.
“It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every region is equipped to face the challenges of our time.”
“To the people of Koforidua and the Eastern Region,” he added, “welcome this office as your home and be assured that your safety and digital security are in capable hands. Together, we shall secure our present and safeguard our future.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
