By Amos Harris
The Ministry of National Defense has announced major preparations for the 2026 recruitment of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), opening a new pathway for disciplined and patriotic young Liberians to serve their country and contribute to national security.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Deputy Minister for Operations at the Ministry of National Defense, Spencer Leeco, confirmed that the AFL is fully prepared to launch the recruitment exercise. He noted that the target is to begin the process within February, pending the release of required funding by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning. This initiative underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the nation’s armed forces and enhancing national defense.
Hon. Leeco emphasized that the recruitment drive will focus on energetic, disciplined, and motivated Liberian men and women between the ages of 18 and 35 who possess the physical strength, mental resilience, and patriotic spirit required for military service. To qualify, applicants must hold a valid West African Examinations Council (WAEC) certificate or provide proof of current enrollment at a recognized college or university.
Furthermore, candidates are required to present a recent police clearance and a medical certificate, both of which must have been issued within the last three months. Proof of Liberian citizenship is mandatory and can be established through a National Identification Card, voter registration card, birth certificate, or Liberian passport, while naturalized citizens must present a valid certificate of naturalization.
In line with its commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity, the AFL has decentralized its testing centers to ensure nationwide access for all interested citizens. Applicants from the Central Region, including Montserrado, Grand Bassa, and Margibi counties, will undergo testing in Monrovia. Those from the Western Region, including Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, and Gbarpolu, are to report to Tubmanburg.
The Northern Region, covering Lofa, Bong, and Nimba counties, will conduct testing in Gbarnga, while the Southeastern counties will be served by two established centers in Zwedru and Harper for applicants from Grand Gedeh, River Gee, Maryland, Grand Kru, and Sinoe.
The AFL leadership used the briefing to caution the public against misinformation and fraudulent practices. Deputy Minister Leeco made it clear that the recruitment process is entirely free of charge and that no recommendation letter is required to join the Armed Forces of Liberia. He warned that anyone demanding money or claiming influence in the enlistment process is engaging in fraud and should be reported to the appropriate authorities immediately.
Beyond recruitment, the Ministry of National Defense is advancing efforts to improve the welfare and living conditions of AFL personnel through the ongoing reclamation of Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, also known as the 72nd Barracks. On January 19, 2026, the AFL issued a 14-day notice to illegal occupants to vacate portions of the land to address severe overcrowding in existing military facilities.
Mr. Leeco explained that the current phase of the exercise focuses on reclaiming 14 acres of the 37-acre property and stressed that the process is being carried out peacefully, with full respect for the rule of law and human dignity. He noted that this reclamation represents the culmination of a decade-long effort spanning three administrations. This recovery follows successful relocations at Camp Jackson, Camp Wisner, and Camp Jones, reinforcing the AFL’s broader strategy to provide adequate housing and a conducive environment for its personnel.
With recruitment plans advancing and infrastructure restoration underway, the Armed Forces of Liberia continues to demonstrate its resolve to build a professional, disciplined, and well-supported military dedicated to defending the nation and serving the Liberian people.
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