President John Dramani Mahama has called for citizens’ active support in safeguarding Ghana’s security amid growing insecurity within the West African sub-region.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the graduation ceremony of Regular Career Course 63 of the Ghana Military Academy, President Mahama acknowledged the increasing incidence of terrorist attacks along Ghana’s northern borders and the persistent instability in parts of the country, particularly Bawku.
He noted that the evolving nature of global threats – especially the rise of non-state actors – demands a more inclusive approach to national security.
“As citizens of Ghana, we must recognize that the nature of contemporary threats that confront us demands that we do not perceive our security services as the exclusive institutions responsible for our safety and security.
“The complementary roles of individuals, organizations, and the government in national security are of critical importance.”
HE President John Dramani Mahama
According to President Mahama, Ghana cannot afford to treat its security architecture as the sole preserve of the military and police.
He cautioned the public against abusing this civic responsibility by raising false alarms or politicizing security concerns.
Referencing the famous fable of the shepherd boy who cried wolf, President Mahama urged citizens to act responsibly and report credible threats.
“If we behave like that boy either for partisan or parochial interest, we distract the attention of our security services from focusing on their critical job of keeping us safe”.
HE President John Dramani Mahama
The President assured Ghanaians that under his leadership, all allegations of crime will be treated with seriousness.
Bawku Conflict
Turning his attention to the conflict in Bawku, President Mahama lamented the recent violence that led to the loss of lives and destruction of property just days before his speech.
He called for an end to the long-standing strife and reiterated his commitment to peacebuilding efforts in the area.
“Nobody gains from this situation of conflict and insecurity. We need the cooperation of all to restore peace in Bawku and its environs. Congratulations to our Armed Forces for the sacrifices you have made, even at the peril of your lives, to protect life and property in the Bawku conflict area”.
HE President John Dramani Mahama
President Mahama also highlighted the Otumfuo Mediation Process, led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as a promising pathway toward lasting peace.
He disclosed that discussions involving all stakeholders had already begun in Kumasi, with the next phase of dialogue expected to resume when the Asantehene returns from a brief trip abroad.
Reflecting on his previous tenure as President, Mahama said the foundation for strengthening Ghana’s security capabilities had already been laid.
“Plans for the expansion of the Ghana Armed Forces to ensure increased capacity to counter both internal and external threats were initiated while I was in office”.
HE President John Dramani Mahama
He cited the acquisition of vital air, land, and sea assets under his administration as part of efforts to modernize the Armed Forces and improve their readiness.
He emphasized that under his current administration, he would prioritize the operational and combat readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces.
“In resetting our nation to build the Ghana we want, my government will aggressively pursue the ideas of operational and combat readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces”.
HE President John Dramani Mahama
President Mahama’s address struck a balance between realism and hope. While he acknowledged the daunting nature of Ghana’s security challenges, he also projected confidence in the capacity of the Armed Forces and the Ghanaian people to overcome them, together.
To the newly commissioned officers, he offered both congratulations and a solemn reminder of the responsibilities ahead.
“You are part of the future of our Ghana Armed Forces. Your actions will shape the destiny of our nation,” he said.
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