Accra: The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) officially inducted its new service chiefs into office during a ceremony held on Sunday at the Garrison Church of Pentecost in Burma Camp. These appointments were made earlier this year by President John Dramani Mahama to lead the Military High Command.
According to Ghana News Agency, the five service chiefs include Lieutenant General William Agyapong as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu as Chief of the Army Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing as Chief of Naval Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong as Chief of Air Staff, and Air Vice Marshal Joshua Lartei Mensah-Larkai as the Chief of Staff.
Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, addressed the new leaders, emphasizing the importance of serving with integrity and humility. He encouraged them to enhance teamwork and focus on developing the potential and expertise of their subordinates, which he believes will build trust and confidence within the GAF and enable it to fulfill its duty of protecting Ghana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Lt. Gen. William Agyepong, the CDS, committed to making strategic decisions to ensure that the Ghana Armed Forces and its personnel deliver the highest standards in their duties. The other service chiefs also expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the opportunity and pledged to serve with professionalism and commitment, despite any logistical and personnel challenges they may face.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, praised the joint induction service as evidence of the unity and determination of the military chiefs to work together. He expressed confidence in their ability to fulfill their promises and collaborate with regional partners to address current security challenges.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Frederick Asare Bekoe (Rtd), Nii Odote Otintor II, Paramount Chief of Sempe, and Naa Professor Edmund Nwinyem Delle Chiir VIII, Paramount Chief of Nandom Traditional Area in the Upper West Region.