Defence Minister Kenneth Gilbert Adjei Calls for Stronger Security Cooperation to Tackle Emerging Threats
123 military and civilian professionals graduate as Ghana strengthens its strategic response to terrorism, cybercrime and transnational crime
By: Ebenezer Adugyamfi/ Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada
August 24, 2026
Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies and regional partners to confront the increasingly complex security threats facing Ghana and the wider West African sub-region.
He said emerging challenges including violent extremism, illicit arms trafficking, cybercrime, piracy, illegal mining and transborder organised crime require a coordinated response built on intelligence sharing, joint operations and stronger institutional partnerships.
Addressing a new generation of security threats
Mr. Adjei made the remarks during the 50th Anniversary Joint Graduation Ceremony of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) in Teshie, Accra.
The ceremony celebrated the graduation of students from the Senior Command and Staff Course 47, the Master of Science in Defence and International Politics (MDIP), and the Master of Science in Security Studies (MSS) programmes.
A total of 123 graduates completed the professional and academic programmes, comprising officers of the Ghana Armed Forces, personnel from allied African countries, and professionals drawn from Ghana’s public and civil sectors.
Intelligence sharing is critical
Representing Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Defence Minister stressed that the nature of modern security threats has changed significantly, making cooperation between institutions more important than ever.
He noted that criminals and extremist groups increasingly operate across national borders, making intelligence sharing one of the most effective tools for preventing attacks and strengthening regional preparedness.
According to him, Ghana’s security architecture must continue evolving through closer collaboration between military, intelligence and civilian institutions both within the country and across West Africa.
Technology must become part of Ghana’s defence strategy
Mr. Adjei also urged security institutions to embrace emerging technologies to improve national defence capabilities.
He identified artificial intelligence, digitalisation and cybersecurity as essential components of modern security operations, arguing that investment in technology will enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering and strategic decision-making.
The minister said the changing security environment demands continuous innovation to ensure Ghana remains prepared for both conventional and non-conventional threats.
Graduates urged to lead with professionalism
Congratulating the graduating officers and professionals, Mr. Adjei encouraged them to apply the knowledge acquired during their training with integrity, discipline and dedication to national service.
He praised the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College for consistently reviewing its curriculum to reflect contemporary security realities and for expanding its academic programmes to produce leaders capable of managing increasingly complex security environments.
He added that developing highly trained military and public-sector professionals remains vital to safeguarding Ghana’s peace, stability and democratic institutions.
Strengthening Ghana’s security future
The Defence Minister concluded by reaffirming government’s commitment to building a resilient national security system through professional military education, inter-agency cooperation and stronger regional partnerships.
He maintained that protecting Ghana’s borders and preserving stability will depend not only on military strength, but also on effective coordination, strategic leadership and the collective efforts of security institutions across the West African sub-region.
