Ghana's new Defence Minister, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, must prioritize security in Northern Ghana. Security analyst Dr. Victor Doke made this urgent call. He spoke on JoyNews' The Pulse on Friday, August 7.
Dr. Doke stressed the immediate need to strengthen border protection. He also called for improved intelligence capabilities. Deepening collaboration among the country's security agencies is crucial, he added. The minister's success depends on equipping security services with necessary resources. These resources will combat emerging threats, especially violent extremism along Ghana's northern frontier.
This focus on Northern Ghana is vital for national stability and economic development. The region faces ongoing challenges from cross-border criminal activities and extremist groups. These issues can disrupt trade, displace communities, and deter investment. Addressing them directly supports broader efforts to maintain peace and foster economic growth across the country. Ghana's northern border regions have seen increased instability in recent years, impacting livelihoods and regional trade.
Dr. Doke emphasized the importance of resource availability. "Availability of resources would mean that you have success in intelligence gathering and in countering violent extremism," he stated. He also called for stronger coordination among key ministries. These include the Defence Ministry, the Interior Ministry, and the National Security Secretariat. This collaborative approach is essential for tackling internal security challenges effectively.
The analyst cited the late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, as an example. Dr. Boamah demonstrated a collaborative approach in addressing the protracted conflict in Bawku. "We know what the late Dr Omane Boamah did with regards to the Bawku crisis. Contributions of ideas and coordinating with other security agencies are very key," Dr. Doke explained. This historical precedent underscores the value of inter-agency cooperation.
Beyond being visible, the new minister must provide strategic leadership. Dr. Doke urged Minister Adjei to offer practical ideas. He must also ensure full involvement of security services in policy implementation. "As much as we want to see leaders working, we also want them to be proactive with the ideas and suggestions they bring," he said. Carrying security agencies along is very important for successful outcomes.
Dr. Doke warned against the consequences of lacking support. Without the confidence and backing of security services, national security efforts could face significant setbacks. "Whatever you do, if you don't have the backing of the security agencies, you are bound to have challenges," he added. This highlights the critical role of institutional trust and cooperation.
While security concerns exist nationwide, protecting Ghana's northern frontier is paramount. This should be the Defence Minister's foremost priority. Only after securing this region should focus shift to other national challenges. This strategic sequencing ensures critical vulnerabilities are addressed first. The long-term stability of Ghana depends on a secure northern border.