Opoku-Agyemang becomes first female to chair Armed Forces Council

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is now the first female Chairperson of the Ghana Armed Forces Council.

The Council, as stated in the 1992 Constitution, advises the President on defense policies. This includes military budgeting, finance, administration, and officer promotions above Lieutenant-Colonel.

President John Dramani Mahama conducted the inaugural ceremony on Monday. It took place at the Ministry of Defence in Accra.

Other Council members include Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Foreign Minister Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Alhaji Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka serves as Minister for the Interior. Additional members are Mr. Daniel Addo, Mr. Fuseini Iddrisu, and Madam Nancy Dankwa Ampofo.

In her acceptance speech, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang thanked President Mahama for this honor. She assured him that they would fulfill their responsibilities diligently.

She emphasized the importance of serving with loyalty and patriotic zeal. The goal is to ensure peace and stability for Ghana.

Opoku-Agyemang expressed pride in the Armed Forces' global reputation. She acknowledged their potential for further achievements.

She also paid tribute to those who served before them. The Council aims to build upon their admirable legacy.

The Vice President clarified that the Council's role is advisory and separate from management duties. They will provide sound advice on defense policies and military matters.

She noted current security challenges facing Ghana, including border issues and internal conflicts. Attention must be given to bilateral and multilateral security relations.

Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that collaboration with ECOWAS and AU is essential for security efforts.

She mentioned various challenges like illegal mining, logging, fishing piracy, terrorism threats, and chieftaincy disputes. The Council has significant work ahead to address these issues.

The Vice President invited everyone to participate in enhancing national security efforts. She stressed that security is everyone's responsibility.

She acknowledged an economic crisis affecting the Ministry of Defence with a debt of GH¢3.7 billion. This includes GH¢275 million owed to food suppliers.

Infrastructure improvements are necessary due to a housing deficit within the military sector.

Opoku-Agyemang praised the capabilities of Ghana’s military forces in supporting a 24-hour economy. She called for support from all sectors to enhance military contributions.

Regarding industrialization, she noted that private sector participation is needed in Defense Industrial Holding Company (DIHOC) projects like food production and infrastructure development.

The Vice President encouraged Ghanaians to see Armed Forces involvement in manufacturing sectors such as vehicle assembly and pharmaceuticals.

She assured President Mahama that humane methods would continue to guide operations within the Armed Forces using modern technology for efficiency.

Opoku-Agyemang committed that they would uphold their mandate while maintaining dialogue with the President when necessary.

Lastly, she joined President Mahama in commending outgoing Chief of Defence Staff General Thomas Oppong-Peprah and other Service Chiefs for their dedicated service to Ghana.