from our Monrovia contributors
MONROVIA – In a vibrant display of military precision and national pride, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. led the 69th Armed Forces Day celebrations at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The Commander-in-Chief used the occasion to announce a transformative four-year roadmap for the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), aiming to revitalize the nation’s “Force for Good.”
A Massive Recruitment Drive
The centerpiece of the President’s address was the announcement of a large-scale recruitment initiative. To combat high attrition rates and the natural aging of the current force, President Boakai declared that the AFL will recruit 600 new personnel annually starting this year through 2029.
“This recruitment drive is not just about numbers; it is about fashioning a force that reflects the diversity, resilience, and aspirations of the Liberian people,” the President told the assembled troops and dignitaries.
Focus on Inter-Agency Synergy
The celebration was held under the timely theme: “Securing Liberia Together: Strengthening Inter-Agency Cooperation Against Drug Trafficking and Emerging Security Threats.” Both President Boakai and the guest speakers emphasized that the military’s role is evolving. Beyond traditional border defense, the AFL is now being positioned as a key player in a “whole-of-government” approach to dismantle drug trafficking networks that threaten Liberia’s youth and social stability.
Honored Guests and Regional Solidarity
The event featured a powerful keynote address from Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff. General Shaibu, who received the Distinguished Service Order for his past service in Liberia, reaffirmed Nigeria’s “unbreakable bond” with the AFL.
- Key Visitors: International delegations from the United States, United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Benin were present.
- Welfare Pledges: The President committed to the urgent renovation of barracks in Bomi and Maryland counties and the operationalization of a new mental health facility at the 14 Military Hospital to support soldiers with “invisible wounds.”
A High-Energy Program
The program was lauded for its high level of organization. It included a 7.5-kilometer run by security forces, the issuance of new uniforms to prevent unauthorized duplication, and a flawless military parade.
The day concluded with a renewed sense of mission for the AFL. As Liberia navigates complex regional security challenges, the 69th anniversary served as a clear signal that the government is prepared to invest in the dignity, capacity, and modernization of its defenders.