By Goddgift Harris
The Ministry of National Defense, has announced major preparations for the 2026 recruitment of people, who are desirous of joining the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).
The recruitment exercise is expected to open a new pathway for “disciplined and patriotic young Liberians” to serve their country and contribute to national security.
Deputy Defense Minister for Operations, Spencer Leeco, told a press conference on Thursday, February 5, 2026, that the pronouncement itself had gathered overwhelming applicants, who continue to submit the required documents.
Leeco confirmed that the AFL is fully prepared to launch the recruitment exercise once the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning released the required funding.
He said, the target is to begin the process in February, underscoring government’s commitment to strengthen the armed forces.
Leeco said, the recruitment drive will focus on “energetic, disciplined, and motivated Liberian men and women between the ages of 18 and 35, who possess the physical strength, mental resilience, and patriotic spirit required for military service.”
To qualify for recruitment, applicants must hold a valid West African Examinations Council (WAEC) certificate or provide proof of current enrollment at a recognized college or university.
Candidates are also required to present a recent police clearance and medical certificate, both issued within the last three months.
“Proof of Liberian citizenship is mandatory, and can be established through a National Identification Card, voter registration card, birth certificate, or Liberian passport, while naturalized citizens must present a valid certificate of naturalization.”
In line with its commitment to inclusivity, and equal opportunity, the AFL has decentralized its testing centers to ensure nationwide access.
Against this backdrop, applicants in the Central Region of Montserrado, Grand Bassa, and Margibi counties, will be tested in Monrovia.
Those from the Western Region, including Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, and Gbarpolu counties, will report to Tubmanburg.
The Northern Region, covering Lofa, Bong, and Nimba counties, will conduct testing in Gbarnga. For the Southeastern counties, two testing centers have been established in Zwedru and Harper, to serve applicants from Grand Gedeh, River Gee, Maryland, Grand Kru, and Sinoe.
The AFL leadership cautioned the public against misinformation and fraudulent practices.
Leeco added: “No recommendation letter is required to join the AFL, and that the recruitment process is entirely free of charge.”
He warned that anyone demanding money or claiming influence in the enlistment process “will be engaging in fraud, and should therefore be reported. Such person(s), if established, will be subjected to harsh punishment.”
Beyond recruitment, the Ministry of National Defense, has advanced efforts to improve the welfare and living conditions of AFL personnel through the ongoing reclamation of Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, near the 72nd facilities.
On January 19, 2026, the AFL issued a 14-day notice to illegal occupants to vacate portions of the land, citing severe over-crowding in existing military facilities.
Mr. Leeco said, the current phase of the exercise focuses on reclaiming 14 acres of the 37-acre property.
He said, the process is being carried out “peacefully, with full respect for the rule of law and human dignity.”
He noted that the reclamation represents the culmination of a decade-long effort spanning three administrations, with earlier attempts under previous governments failing to achieve lasting results.
The ongoing recovery of the 72nd Barracks follows successful relocations at Camp Jackson in Sand Beach, Camp Wisner in Zwedru, and Camp Jones in Kakata, reinforcing the AFL’s broader strategy to provide adequate housing and a conducive environment for its personnel.
With recruitment plans advancing and infrastructure restoration underway, the AFL continues to demonstrate its resolve to build a professional, disciplined, and well-supported military dedicated to defending the nation and serving the Liberian people.