If all goes well, soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) will enter 2026 with transformed zeal and forte as a “Force for Good!!”
The latest moral-building comment came from Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan.
He has meanwhile, reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthen the AFL.
He cited increased budgetary support, improved welfare and renewed professionalism as reasons for the support.
By his recommitment, Ngafaun said, the FY2026 approved national budget allocates US$20.7 million to the Ministry of National Defense, with US$18.3 million earmarked for the AFL.
Of that amount, more than US$12.7 million is dedicated to personnel compensation.
He also announced a US$500,000 allocation under the Public Sector Investment Plan for the renovation of AFL barracks, building on previous improvements at Barclay Training Center (BTC) Barracks, Camp Jones, Camp Whisner, and Camp Grant. Ngafuan: “These projects have improved living conditions and strengthened family stability for soldiers.”
Additional budgetary support, he said, continues for the 14th Military Hospital, expanded Coast Guard patrols up to 200 nautical miles offshore, the reactivation of three AFL units, extended operations along Liberia’s western borders, and the planned recruitment of about 500 new soldiers in 2026.
“These achievements are promises made by the President, and they are promises kept. They are no longer just vision statements. They are line items, already budgeted, and actively being executed.”
Ngafuan made the commitment at the graduation ceremony of the AFL Officer Candidates Class- 12-2025, at BTC in Monrovia.
He told the 56 graduating officers that their commissioning marked not just the end of a rigorous training cycle, but a deeper affirmation that the country is rebuilding its national institutions “quietly, deliberately and with discipline.”
The ceremony brought together senior government officials, including members of the Legislature, Defense Minister, AFL high command, national security officials, and families of the graduates.
Ngafuan also delivered greetings on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
He congratulated the new officers, and praised the AFL leadership for its continued service to the nation.
“This class reflects the diversity, strength, and evolving professionalism of the AFL.”
The graduates include medical personnel, band unit, and combat officers, all promoted from within the enlisted ranks.
Mr. Ngafuan urged the newly commissioned officers to lead with empathy, discipline, and professionalism.
He spoke of leadership in uniform, which he said, must be grounded in service, sacrifice, and integrity.
Ngafuan underscored “tangible proof of the government’s support for the military.”
The ceremony ended with the formal certification of the 56 officers into the AFL, marking a new chapter in their service to the country.