The Chief of Staff and Minister for Presidential Affairs, Mr. Kwadwo Okyere Mpiani has asked the security services to go the extra mile to provide maximum security. He said they ought to do this to ensure that the series of historic landmark events lined up between now and 2008 in the country were held successfully. He mentioned the celebration of the 50 years of nationhood, the climax of which would be on March 6, the African Union (AU) summit to be held in June, and the African Cup of Nations Cup tournament (CAN 2008) among others. Mr Mpiani said apart from providing security for Heads of State and Government from across the world and other dignitaries expected in the country to participate in these events, the security services should also make sure that a conducive environment existed to enable them to have a taste of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality. He was speaking at an end-of-year WASSA held for the VIP Protection Unit at the Castle Gardens on Friday. The Chief of Staff recognised the sacrifices personnel of the security services had made and continue to make towards the stability and protection of the country's democracy. Mr. Mpani said the President of Ghana was an embodiment of the State and as such his protection was important for the sustenance of the nation's stability. He gave the assurance that the Unit would be given every needed support to facilitate its work and to minimise the risk personnel faced in their duties. The Presidential Security Co-coordinator, Lieutenant Colonel E.A. Mensah, cautioned members of the security services to avoid complacency and said they should brace themselves up for harder work. He reminded them that the protection of the Presidency was the pivot around which, the nation's security revolved and for that matter, their resolve, posture, alertness, discipline and dedication should be without blemish. Lt. Col. Mensah also asked personnel of the Unit to consider their call to duty at the Presidency as an honour to serve their country. He stated that, last year was fruitful and praised the security personnel for their resilience and dedication to duty. He conveyed the Unit's congratulations to President Kufuor on his election as Chairman of the AU, which, he said, was recognition of his good leadership. "We all share in the joy of his elevation." Source GNA