President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Wednesday commissioned 54 Officer Cadets into the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) with a call on them to safeguard the national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the peaceful development of the country.
Whilst congratulating them on their achievement, the President urged them to maintain high levels of discipline and strive not to compromise on their professional ethics; adding that diligence, integrity and honesty must be their watch words to safeguard the nation.
“As the Principal Service of our entry point, the Immigration Service is critical to the security of our borders and in the prevention of Cross border and transnational crime.
“It is indeed at the forefront of regional effort to combat terrorism,” he said.
The parade, which is the 9th Batch of Officer Cadets to pass out, was made up of 34 males and 20 females.
It was held at the Vigilance Square of the GIS Academy and Training School at Assin Fosu in the Central Region.
The 54 Officer Cadets were admitted into the Academy on December 28, 2016 and passed through 10 months of intensive training, studying courses including: Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crimes, Border Patrol Management, National Security and Intelligence, Travel Documents Management, amongst others.
This is the maiden graduation parade of the GIS reviewed by the President.
He said Ghana has renewed friendship with ECOWAS Member States to explore areas of cooperation.
President Akufo-Addo stated that his outfit was keen on gradually ensuring that all borders of the country are operational for 24 hours each day.
This according to him would give true meaning to the ECOWAS’ protocol of free movement of goods and persons, and promote the progress and prosperity of Ghanaians.
“We started this in June and now the Aflao border has been running for 24 hours and same has been extended to Akamu and Sege, in due course, Elubo, Sampa, Konokrom and the rest would follow.
“We are committed to the realization of all our campaign promises. When I promise, I deliver,” he added.
The President mentioned that government was aware of the possible security threat that might come with the initiative and assured Ghanaians that, the country’s security on high alert and would not tolerate any illegal transactions on the borders.
He said: “I wish to assure Ghanaians that our security agencies are coordinating effectively with our neighbours to keep our respective countries safe”.
He also urged Ghanaians to be vigilant and report any suspected activities of insurgents.
President Akufo-Addo said government was aware of the logistical challenges confronting the GIS and putting undue strain on the GIS in its efforts to providing quality training.
He gave the assurance that his administration would provide modern and strategic equipment for the GIS as well as offering competitive remuneration to enable the service attract the best personnel.
Mr Yaw Brobbey-Kyeremanteng was adjudged the Overall Best Officer Cadet.
He received the Sword of Honour, Plague and a Citation.
GNA/newsghana.com.gh
