President Nana Akufo-Addo has stated that the extensive security infrastructure projects initiated under his administration have significantly enhanced Ghana’s capacity to combat terrorism and violent extremism.

“We have equipped our armed forces to deal with the contemporary threats in the region, as well as other security challenges, and contain threats from violent and terrorist groups,” he said.

Speaking at the inaugural graduation ceremony of the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS) in Accra, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo highlighted the substantial security investments made by his administration to bolster Ghana’s defence capabilities in the face of rising threats.

He detailed the provision of significant military assets to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), including 104 armoured personnel carriers, 70 utility troop-carrying vehicles, 20 armoured vehicles, and 85 assorted Toyota vehicles.

Additionally, the military has been equipped with 40 jeep vehicles, explosive ordinance disposal gear, advanced communication and surveillance systems, various weaponry, and four unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems.

The President stated that the government had strengthened the Navy with offshore patrol vessels and fast patrol boats, enhancing its ability to combat piracy and secure Ghana’s exclusive economic zone.

He also disclosed plans to acquire six more fighter aircraft for the Air Force to support the operations of the Special Forces, all aimed at ensuring the armed forces are well-equipped and motivated to tackle security challenges effectively.

These measures are in direct response to growing concerns over regional security, as the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) has warned of increasing influence by armed groups and violent extremists in the region, compounded by the instability caused by repeated coups d’état.

In its 2023 Report, the Office highlighted that millions of children in the region have no access to education because ten thousand schools have been shut down due to instability.

“Non-state groups are fighting among themselves for supremacy, pushing States to the margin and causing untold misery to millions of people who have to leave their communities to seek safety,” the UNOWAS reported.

President Nana Akufo-Addo said given the existential threats of a spillover of terrorist activities, Ghana was taking no chances.

“To this end, additional bases, specialised units, and brigades have been created with the acquisition of requisite equipment to enhance operations, particularly along our northern frontiers,” he noted.

That expansion drive, he said, had already led to the creation and establishment of the army special operations brigade, the armoured brigade, the signal brigade and two mechanised battalions deployed in the Upper-West and Upper-East Regions.

The establishment and equipping of 15 forward operating bases across the northern frontiers for the armed forces for the northern project were also on track, he added.

The President indicated that upholding the country’s security was non-negotiable, and that had informed the provision of several combat vehicles, equipment, and weaponry to the armed forces to enhance internal security, as well as improve the mobility and firepower of Ghanaian troops.

“Let us never forget that the security of our nation is the foundation upon which the prosperity of our nation and future is built and would be built,” he emphasised.

At the NCDS graduation ceremony, 19 senior officers were awarded master’s degrees in strategic studies.

Among them were twelve from the Ghana Army, three from the Navy, two from the Air Force, and two civilians from the Ministry of Defence and National Security.

Special prizes were presented to outstanding students.

The Best Dissertation Award, sponsored by the President, was given to Naval Captain Michael Addo Larbie.

The Strategic Award, sponsored by Vice-Admiral Seth Amoama (Rtd), a former Chief of Defence Staff and Ghana’s current High Commissioner to Nigeria, was won by Colonel Foster Okae-Yeboah. The Late Lieutenant-General Joseph Smith’s Award was presented to Colonel Kwesi Ayima.

The President was grateful to the College Control Board for naming him among the first three Honorary Fellows of the institution.

“This honour which I share with Vice-Admiral Amoama (rtd) and the family of the late Lt.-Gen. Joseph Henry Smith reaffirms our commitment to the vision of creating a centre of excellence for strategic military education in Ghana,” he stated.

On the significance of the NCDS, the President said Ghana was taking ownership of her security and defence education, ensuring that “our training is adapted to address Ghana’s unique challenges.”

“Today, we face increasingly complex security threats, from terrorism and violent extremism to cybercrime and environmental degradation, which require proactive leadership and strategic foresight.

“The National College of Defence Studies will play a key role in equipping leaders with the skills and knowledge to navigate today’s volatile, uncertain and complex world.

“Government recognises that the skill set taught here is not only foundational for generalship but also essential for effective leadership across security and public service,” he noted.