President John Dramani Mahama has strengthened Ghana’s national security framework with high-profile appointments, bringing seasoned professionals into pivotal roles to address pressing security challenges.
A statement issued in Accra, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Acting Presidential Spokesperson, confirmed the appointments:
- Retired Commissioner of Police (COP) Nathan Kofi Boakye as Director of Operations at the Presidency, responsible for overseeing operational effectiveness in security matters.
- Prosper Douglas Bani, a former Chief of Staff and Minister for the Interior, as National Security Advisor to the President.
- Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Abdul-Osman Razak as National Security Coordinator, tasked with ensuring a unified approach across security operations.
- Charles Kipo as Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Ghana’s primary intelligence agency.
Expertise and Experience
These appointments reflect a deliberate effort by President Mahama to assemble a team with a balance of police, military, and civilian perspectives:
- Nathan Kofi Boakye, a seasoned law enforcement officer, rose to the rank of Commissioner of Police and is widely respected for his leadership as Ashanti Regional Police Commander.
- Prosper Douglas Bani brings extensive expertise from his United Nations peacebuilding roles and government service.
- DCOP Razak will drive cohesive strategies in addressing Ghana’s multifaceted security landscape.
- Charles Kipo, heading the NIB, will focus on intelligence-led solutions to emerging threats.
Security Analysts Applaud Appointments
Security experts have lauded the President’s choices, describing the team as well-equipped to tackle the country’s complex security issues.
Dr. Adam Bonaa, a security analyst, emphasized the need to manage public expectations, urging Ghanaians to give the new appointees time to deliver. He highlighted key challenges such as youth unemployment, chieftaincy disputes, political violence, and land guard activities as priorities for the team.
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Wing Commander (Rtd) Kwaku Kekrebesi, a former Ghana Armed Forces pilot, praised the diversity of the team, noting that the mix of military, police, and civilian expertise would enhance the country’s security.
“I am confident this team will make Ghanaians feel safer,” WG CDR Kekrebesi stated, adding that the appointments signal a promising start to improving national security.
Addressing the Bawku Conflict
The ongoing Bawku conflict was highlighted as a critical issue for the new security team. Dr. Bonaa commended President Mahama’s direct involvement in the area but stressed that sustainable peace would require dialogue and conflict resolution strategies beyond military and police interventions.
WG CDR Kekrebesi suggested adopting a similar approach to the successful resolution of the Dagbon conflict, emphasizing dialogue and long-term solutions.
Strengthening Governance and Security
The appointments also align with broader goals of President Mahama, including the “Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL)” campaign to reclaim misappropriated state resources.
As the new security team assumes their roles, expectations are high for improved coordination, innovative strategies, and proactive responses to Ghana’s evolving security challenges.
