Mr. Charles A. Kipo, Director General of the National Intelligence Bureau, and distinguished graduates and partners in Ghana's security sector gathered to celebrate the graduation of 35 officers from the Counterterrorism Directorate of the National Intelligence Bureau. These officers completed a six-week U.S.-supported training program focused on counterterrorism investigations.
The ceremony highlighted the strong security partnership between the United States and Ghana. "Today’s ceremony is not just a celebration of the knowledge and skills gained over the past six weeks, it is also a tribute to the strength of the security partnership between the United States and Ghana," stated Chargé d’Affaires Rolf A. Olson.
Ghana has recently extradited several high-profile transnational criminals to face justice in the United States, addressing issues such as cyber-enabled fraud, money laundering, and narcotics trafficking. "These actions... demonstrate the Mahama administration’s principled commitment to the rule of law," Olson noted.
The U.S. government has supported Ghana's security institutions through various trainings provided by agencies such as the FBI, Department of Justice, and State Department. These efforts aim to enhance capabilities in counterterrorism law, intelligence operations, interview techniques, and courtroom evidence handling.
Olson addressed the graduates directly: "Your completion of this course marks a step forward in that vision." He encouraged them to remain disciplined and coordinated in their duties.
Acknowledgments were given to Director General Kipo for his partnership and professionalism. The collaboration was made possible by contributions from both U.S. trainers and Ghanaian hosts.
Olson reaffirmed U.S. commitment to supporting Ghana in countering violent extremism and transnational crime: "Together, we are at our strongest, smartest and safest."
The event concluded with congratulations to all graduates for their service aimed at inspiring trust and delivering justice.