President Boakai Announces Major Expansion, Welfare Enhancement and Infrastructure Reforms for the Armed Forces of Liberia at 69th Armed Forces Day
Executive Mansion, Monrovia - His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), has announced a comprehensive four-year program aimed at strengthening the nation’s military capacity through recruitment expansion, improved welfare systems, infrastructure development, mental health services, and increased female participation in the AFL.
The President made the announcement on today, February 11, 2026, during the 69th Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Barclay Training Center under the theme: “Securing Liberia Together: Strengthening Inter-Agency Cooperation Against Drug Trafficking and Emerging Security Threats.”
In his address, the President described the Armed Forces of Liberia as a central pillar of national stability, discipline, and service. He stated that the commemoration of Armed Forces Day serves both as a tribute to the sacrifices of past and present service members and as a moment to position the military to effectively respond to evolving security challenges.
While acknowledging the progress made in building a professional and disciplined force, the President noted that current and emerging threats require renewed investments in personnel, infrastructure, and institutional capacity.
The President announced that beginning in 2026 and extending through 2029, the Government of Liberia will recruit six hundred (600) new personnel annually, bringing a total of two thousand four hundred (2,400) additional troops into the Armed Forces of Liberia. He explained that the recruitment initiative will address issues related to attrition and the natural aging of the force, while ensuring the development of a youthful, dynamic, and nationally representative military capable of meeting both conventional and non-traditional security demands.
President Boakai further disclosed that following recent renovation works at military barracks in Margibi and Nimba counties, priority attention will now be directed to restoration and construction projects in Bomi and Maryland counties. The initiative is intended to reduce overcrowding and improve living conditions for service members and their families. He accordingly instructed the Ministers of National Defense, State, and Public Works to conduct immediate assessments and commence renovation or construction where required, emphasizing that decent housing remains central to the welfare and readiness of the force.
Placing increased attention on the wellbeing of service members, the President announced plans for the completion and operationalization of a mental health facility at the 14 Military Hospital. He noted that the facility will provide specialized psychological and psychosocial care for members of the AFL, while also serving the wider Liberian population.
The President observed that effective national defense requires attention to both physical fitness and mental resilience.
The Liberian Leader also announced measures aimed at increasing female participation within the Armed Forces of Liberia, with support from the FS Foundation. He described the initiative as a step toward building a more inclusive and representative military institution, noting that the participation of women brings additional skills, perspectives, and strength to national defense.
In recognition of longstanding bilateral cooperation, President Boakai commended the Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Major General Ali Sabu, the Keynote Speaker, for Nigeria’s historic and continued support to Liberia’s peace and security efforts. He also welcomed Major General Thomas D. Wosser and the Capstone delegation from the United States National Defense University, describing their presence as a reflection of sustained strategic defense partnerships.
Concluding his remarks, President Boakai called on Liberians to continue supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces with the resources, respect, and recognition befitting their service, stating that the strength and professionalism of the Armed Forces of Liberia remain essential to the peace, sovereignty, and future of the Republic of Liberia.
