President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), has announced a four-year plan to strengthen the country’s military. The announcement was made on February 11, 2026, during the 69th Armed Forces Day celebration at the Barclay Training Center in Monrovia.
The new program will focus on expanding recruitment, improving welfare and infrastructure, enhancing mental health services, and increasing female participation in the AFL. President Boakai said that these steps are necessary to ensure that the military is prepared for both traditional and emerging security challenges.
“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,” President Boakai stated.
He outlined plans for recruiting six hundred new personnel each year from 2026 through 2029. This would add a total of two thousand four hundred troops over four years. According to President Boakai, this initiative aims to address attrition issues and maintain a youthful and representative force.
Following recent renovations at barracks in Margibi and Nimba counties, priority will now shift toward restoration projects in Bomi and Maryland counties. The goal is to reduce overcrowding and improve living conditions for service members and their families. “Decent housing remains central to the welfare and readiness of the force,” he said, instructing relevant ministries to begin assessments for renovation or construction where needed.
The president also announced plans for completing a mental health facility at the 14 Military Hospital. He explained that this facility will offer specialized psychological care not only for AFL members but also for civilians.
President Boakai highlighted efforts to increase female participation within the AFL with support from the FS Foundation. He described this as an important step toward building an inclusive military institution: “The participation of women brings additional skills, perspectives, and strength to national defense.”
He acknowledged Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff Major General Ali Sabu—who served as keynote speaker—and welcomed Major General Thomas D. Wosser along with delegates from the United States National Defense University as signs of ongoing strategic partnerships.
In his closing remarks, President Boakai called on Liberians “to continue supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces with resources, respect, and recognition befitting their service,” emphasizing that “the strength and professionalism of the Armed Forces of Liberia remain essential to peace, sovereignty, and future” stability.
The Executive Mansion plays several roles in Liberian governance; it serves as both residence and workplace for Liberia’s president in Monrovia while functioning as part of government leadership structures. It is recognized as a symbol of national unity by providing official communications about presidential events—including initiatives like those announced by President Boakai—to promote transparency among citizens (https://www.emansion.gov.lr/index.php/).