President John Mahama has announced the establishment of two new military units in the Oti and Central regions as part of efforts to respond to emerging security threats and strengthen national defence.

Speaking at the End of Year West Africa Social Activity (WASSA) 2025 held at the Burma Camp in Accra on Friday, January 23, the President said the decision reflects changing security dynamics across the country.

“The government has taken the strategic decision to establish two new military units in the Oti and Central regions,” he said.

He explained that the move was driven by “emerging security dynamics and the need to strengthen our national response framework.”

President Mahama also spoke about the ongoing recruitment exercise within the Ghana Armed Forces, which he said was aimed at expanding the military’s capacity over the next few years.

“The ongoing recruitment drive, which began last year, aims to increase the Ghana Armed Forces workforce by 12,000 personnel over the next four years,” he stated.

According to him, this expansion is expected to “enhance operational capacity and sustainability.”

The President, however, used the occasion to express the nation’s sorrow over the tragic loss of lives during the recent recruitment exercise.

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“Let me once again express our nation’s deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of our youth who died in the stampede at El Wak Stadium during the recent recruitment exercise,” he said.

He also extended well wishes to those who were injured during the incident. “For those who are injured in the exercise, I wish them a speedy recovery,” President Mahama added.