MoD Discloses Major Recruitment, Security Ops Plans -At MICAT Regular Briefing

By: George C Flomo 

MONROVIA – The Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of National Defense, Hon. Augustine T. Larmin, addressed the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) press briefing on Tuesday, outlining key developments within the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL). Minister Larmin highlighted five major issues: recruitment, renovation of military barracks, ongoing security operations, and the AFL’s intervention at the Sapo National Park.

Speaking at the briefing, Minister Larmin emphasized that the Ministry of Defense focuses less on public appearances and more on delivering tangible results. “Like the previous speaker said, we don’t do much talking—we believe in action. You don’t see us constantly because we let our work speak for us,” he stated.

Nationwide Recruitment Exercise Slated for February 2026

Minister Larmin disclosed that the Commander-in-Chief (CIC) has approved a nationwide recruitment exercise for the AFL, set to begin in February 2026. The target is to enlist 650 new soldiers, a step the Minister described as critical to strengthening the country’s defense capacity in line with Liberia’s National Security Strategy.

Applicants must be Liberian citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, possess a high school diploma, pass a drug test, and provide police clearance. Additional physical and medical requirements will be announced as the recruitment process unfolds.

“The recruitment will not be centralized; it will be nationwide, ensuring both geographical and general representation,” Larmin said. “We are hoping to receive up to 5,000 applicants, depending on available resources, but our final numbers will remain consistent with our national security and defense strategy.”

Renovation and Decongestion of Military Barracks

Addressing the challenges of overcrowding at the Edward Binyah Kesselly (EBK) Barracks, Liberia’s largest military base, the Deputy Minister said the CIC approved a comprehensive plan to renovate and expand military housing.

Already, Camp Green in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, has been rehabilitated, with troops now stationed there. The move was met with overwhelming support from residents of Nimba, who reportedly welcomed the AFL with jubilation.

Other ongoing projects include the rehabilitation of Camp Jones in Margibi County and a new facility nearing completion elsewhere. Future plans cover renovations in Lofa, Bomi, and other strategic locations, contingent upon resource availability.

“This effort is not just about creating space but also about enhancing the dignity and operational capacity of our men and women in uniform,” Minister Larmin emphasized, noting that the CIC has committed to ensuring resources are provided to sustain the effort.

Operation “True Guardian” to Boost Civilian Security

Minister Larmin also highlighted Operation True Guardian, a patrol initiative designed to reassure citizens of the AFL’s presence and commitment to national security. The first phase, conducted between June and August, covered the central region, including Bomi and Gbarpolu Counties. Soldiers patrolled borders and roads, assessing threats and risks while interacting with local populations.

“These patrols are not only about security—they are about building confidence among our people that the army is present to protect them,” Larmin said. He confirmed that the operation will continue in phases, depending on resource mobilization.

AFL Deployment at Sapo National Park

Perhaps the most sensitive issue addressed was the deployment of the AFL to the Sapo National Park, Liberia’s largest natural reserve, which had been overtaken by illegal squatters and miners. According to Minister Larmin, more than 10,000 individuals had established unauthorized camps inside the park, engaging in illegal gold mining, logging, and wildlife hunting.

“The situation overwhelmed local authorities, and the CIC mandated the AFL to intervene,” he explained. “Since July, our forces have cleared several major camps, including Camp Alpha, which had become the epicenter of illegal activities.”

The AFL has now secured three major entry points into the park—from River Gee, Sinoe, and Grand Gedeh Counties—and disbanded key illegal camps. Minister Larmin stressed that restoring security to the park is critical to protecting Liberia’s biodiversity and safeguarding national treasures such as the Putu Mountains and the Sinoe River.

A Message of Assurance

In conclusion, Minister Larmin reiterated the AFL’s commitment to professionalism, national defense, and service to the people of Liberia. He assured citizens that the army’s actions—whether through recruitment, renovation, patrols, or environmental protection—are guided by the Commander-in-Chief’s mandate and rooted in the broader National Security Strategy.

“As we move forward, our focus remains on strengthening the AFL, protecting our borders, supporting national development, and ensuring that Liberians everywhere feel safe,” the Deputy Minister affirmed.