President John Dramani Mahama on Friday commissioned 263 officer cadets into the Ghana Armed Forces, charging them to uphold integrity, professionalism and loyalty as they assume their roles as defenders of the Republic.
Speaking at the graduation parade of the Ghana Military Academy, the President described the ceremony as “a powerful demonstration of discipline, professionalism and excellence,” noting that the performance of the cadets reflected months of rigorous training and personal sacrifice.
“The precision, confidence and bearing of the 263 officer cadets on parade today reflect months of rigorous training and personal sacrifice,” President Mahama said.
“You have upheld the Academy’s noble motto of service, devotion and sacrifice.”
The ceremony began on a solemn note as the President paid tribute to colleagues, including a former Minister of Defence, who lost their lives in a recent tragic helicopter crash.
“We remember them with deep sorrow and pray that the Almighty God grants their souls peaceful repose,” he stated.
President Mahama commended the Military High Command, the Commandant of the Academy and the training staff for maintaining high standards of leadership and instruction, describing their work as critical to sustaining a capable and resilient Armed Forces, particularly at a time of limited resources.
Touching on the regional and global security environment, the President warned that violent extremism, terrorism and transnational crime continue to pose serious threats, especially along Ghana’s northern borders.
“Security cannot be seen as the sole responsibility of the Armed Forces and security agencies. It is a shared national duty,” he emphasized, urging citizens, communities and traditional authorities to remain vigilant and security-conscious.
President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s longstanding contribution to international peacekeeping, recalling that the country first participated in a United Nations mission in the Congo in 1960. He noted that Ghana currently serves in 15 peace support operations under the United Nations, the African Union and ECOWAS.
“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,” he said.
On gender inclusion, the President noted that Ghana’s female participation in peacekeeping exceeds United Nations targets, describing it as evidence of the Armed Forces’ commitment to equity and operational excellence.
Addressing environmental security, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to combat illegal mining, which he said has severely damaged rivers, forests and farmlands.
He outlined government interventions including the establishment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NIMOS), the declaration of forests and river bodies as security zones, and the deployment of permanent military bases.
“Illegal mining will continue to be confronted decisively and without fear or favour,” the President declared, adding that rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra and Offin were gradually recovering.
The President also spoke about ongoing efforts to address conflicts in areas such as Bawku, Bimbilla and Nkwanta, noting that government had increased security presence, supported mediation efforts and provided humanitarian assistance while pursuing long-term development solutions.
On the welfare of personnel, President Mahama acknowledged challenges inherited regarding the payment of gratuities under CI 129 and assured retirees of government’s commitment to resolving the matter.
“Government will not shirk its responsibility to the men and women who have served our nation with distinction. We will find an acceptable and just solution,” he assured.
Reaffirming his administration’s focus on strengthening the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, the President announced plans to acquire new helicopters to enhance air mobility and rapid response, as well as efforts to return Mi-17 heavy-lift helicopters to service. He also disclosed that a multi-purpose force complex had been included in the Big Push Programme and would be delivered soon.
In addition, President Mahama revealed the commencement of a major housing programme for the Armed Forces.
“This is just the beginning of our programme to deliver 10,000 housing units for the Armed Forces over the next five years,” he said, adding that about 12,000 new personnel would be recruited nationwide over the next three years, supported by the establishment of forward operating bases in strategic border areas.
In a symbolic gesture, the President noted that he addressed the parade in the ceremonial uniform of the Ghana Air Force, having previously done so in Army and Navy uniforms in earlier years, to honour the service of airmen and airwomen.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers directly, President Mahama reminded them that leadership goes beyond rank.
“Leadership is not about rank or privilege; it is about responsibility, service and sacrifice,” he said. “Lead with integrity, show courage in adversity and honour the proud traditions of the Ghana Armed Forces.”
The President congratulated the award winners for excellence in leadership, academics and military skills, and urged all the new officers to serve with pride and unwavering loyalty to Ghana.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
