Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has made history by becoming the first female to chair the Ghana Armed Forces Council. The council, which is mandated by the 1992 Constitution, advises the President on matters concerning defense policy, military finance, and the promotion of military officers. The inaugural meeting, held at the Ministry of Defence in Accra, was officiated by President John Dramani Mahama. Other council members include the Defense Minister, Foreign Minister, and the Interior Minister.
In her address, Opoku-Agyemang expressed her gratitude and commitment to ensuring the success of the council. She highlighted the importance of maintaining the Ghana Armed Forces’ global reputation and addressed key challenges like illegal mining, violent extremism, and economic issues such as a GH¢3.7 billion debt in the Ministry of Defence. She also stressed the importance of private sector collaboration in advancing the nation’s defense industry.
Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the need for effective collaboration between the Armed Forces and the government to tackle pressing national security challenges. She expressed her dedication to leveraging the council’s collective expertise to address issues such as the growing threats of violent extremism and the impacts of illegal mining on national security. Furthermore, she underlined the importance of sustaining the Ghana Armed Forces’ reputation as a peacekeeping force globally.
The Vice President also acknowledged the significant role of the Ministry of Defence in managing the country’s defense policies and initiatives. She called for continued investment in military infrastructure and the welfare of military personnel, urging the private sector to contribute to the growth of Ghana’s defense industry.
The meeting served as a platform to reaffirm the council’s commitment to its constitutional role and its goal of advancing the nation’s security and defense capabilities.
In addition to addressing security challenges, Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the need for modernizing the Ghana Armed Forces to meet contemporary demands. She acknowledged the importance of investing in defense technology and infrastructure to ensure the military remains equipped to handle emerging threats. She also emphasized the role of the council in fostering greater collaboration between the various arms of government to promote national security and stability.
The council’s activities, Opoku-Agyemang stated, would focus on strengthening the relationship between the military and the civilian population, ensuring that the Armed Forces continue to serve as a pillar of national unity. She reiterated the significance of upholding the Armed Forces’ core values of discipline, professionalism, and patriotism while addressing the evolving security landscape.
In conclusion, Opoku-Agyemang expressed her readiness to work alongside her fellow council members to ensure the Armed Forces remain a formidable force capable of safeguarding Ghana’s peace and sovereignty, contributing to the country’s overall development and prosperity.
