OTI REGIONAL MINISTER RECEIVES CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE STAFF ON WORKING VISIT TO INSPECT MILITARY BARRACKS PROJECT
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, on Friday, welcomed the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, and a high-powered delegation from the Ghana Armed Forces on a working visit to the Oti Region.
The delegation comprised the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff. The visit formed part of efforts to assess the progress of the ongoing Oti Military Barracks Project and explore measures to accelerate its completion.
In his welcome remarks, Hon. Gyapong expressed his appreciation to the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, particularly their immense contribution to maintaining peace and security in Nkwanta and other parts of the Oti Region.
The Regional Minister commended the Armed Forces for their continuous collaboration with the Government in promoting stability and creating a secure environment for socio-economic development. He also expressed optimism that the first phase of the military barracks project would be completed within the next twelve months to accommodate the first batch of military personnel to be deployed to the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, stated that the Oti Region was privileged to be one of only two regions selected for the construction of new military barracks this year. He explained that the facility would serve as a permanent base for the Army, Navy and Air Force and would also include an airstrip to enhance operational efficiency and rapid response to security emergencies.
According to the CDS, the purpose of the visit was to inspect the progress of work on the project, engage the contractors and stakeholders, and identify practical measures to ensure its timely completion. He further expressed gratitude to the Oti Regional Coordinating Council and the Krachi East Municipal Assembly for their collaboration in securing the land for the project, describing their support as instrumental to its successful commencement.
Lieutenant General Agyapong noted that upon completion, the military barracks would significantly strengthen the security architecture of the Oti Region, improve rapid deployment capabilities, and contribute to creating a safer and more secure environment for residents and investors alike.
As part of the day’s activities, the delegation paid a courtesy call on Dasibre Atamafowiese Bonjah II, Paramount Chief of the Chonke Traditional Area, where they discussed the importance of continued collaboration between the traditional authorities and the security services in promoting peace and development in the region.
The delegation later visited the military barracks project site to inspect the progress of construction and interact with the project team.The visit underscores the Government’s commitment to strengthening national security infrastructure while reinforcing the strategic importance of the Oti Region in Ghana’s security and development agenda.