The Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has called for the reinstatement of training opportunities for personnel from ECOWAS member states as part of efforts to strengthen regional defence collaboration.

Speaking during a working visit to the Ghana Military Academy (GMA) at Teshie on Wednesday, the minister noted that such collaboration would enhance defence cooperation, improve bilateral relations, and promote effective intelligence sharing to counter emerging threats within the sub-region.

He praised the Acting Commandant and the Academy staff for their dedication and sacrifices in training capable officers for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the nation, and urged them to keep maintaining the Academy’s high standards.

Dr Omane Boamah reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing the Academy’s pressing challenges.

He outlined plans to develop a modern sports complex and initiate the completion of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) along the country’s borders to enhance national security operations.

He stressed the need for closer collaboration between training institutions and the GAF Enlistment Department.

This, he explained, would ensure the selection of the most promising candidates for both the Academy and other GAF training schools.

He cautioned against attempts to bypass established enlistment procedures, warning that such actions could undermine the integrity of the recruitment process.

The Minister also held an interactive session with cadets of RCC 64 and praised them for their resilience and dedication.

He urged them to maintain exemplary conduct in their final months at the Academy.

The Acting Commandant of GMA, Brigadier General Cornelius Kobla Lithur, expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to developing the Ghana Armed Forces.

The Chief Coordinator of the Academy, Colonel Noble Carl Dei-Alorse, also provided a detailed briefing on the Academy’s operations, organisational structure, training curriculum, ongoing and future programmes, as well as existing challenges.

Judith Twumwaa, ISD