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Minister for Communication, Digital Innovation and Technology, Sam Nartey George, has sparked a national conversation over age restrictions in the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), calling for a review of the maximum enlistment age to reflect modern realities and ensure greater inclusivity
His comments come amid the ongoing 2025 Armed Forces recruitment exercise, which has drawn public scrutiny over eligibility criteria—especially the upper age limit that disqualifies applicants typically over 26 years of age for regular enlistment.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Mr. George said the time had come for Ghana to modernise its military recruitment policies to match global standards and current socio-economic trends.
“I honestly believe it is time for our beloved nation to re-examine the maximum age for enlistment into our military services,” he wrote.
“There are people in their 30s who are physically fit and sound enough to serve their nation. We must not deny them this opportunity simply because of their age… I believe an upper limit of 35 years would serve our young people better.”
He cited international examples, noting that other countries have more flexible age policies, and emphasized that Ghana must “nurture the dreams” of capable citizens, rather than disqualify them based solely on age.
Parliamentary Support for Reform
Mr. George’s position has found support from fellow MP and Majority Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (South Dayi), who also took to X to back the proposal. He revealed that several party supporters had raised concerns over the current age ceiling during the recruitment process.
Mr. Dafeamekpor pointed out that countries such as Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Nigeria, and even the United States allow enlistment well into the 30s or beyond, depending on the role and fitness of applicants.
“In Ghana, we can extend our age limit to say 35 or even 40 years, depending on medical fitness and non-combatant roles,” he posted.
“We need new ways of doing things. For God and Country.”
A Push for Inclusivity and National Service
Both lawmakers argue that raising the age limit would not only expand opportunities for patriotic and capable Ghanaians but also enhance the strength and diversity of the Armed Forces by allowing experienced individuals with valuable skills to serve.
The debate comes at a time when the GAF is undergoing recruitment to bolster its ranks, amidst growing calls for fairness, inclusivity, and modernised standards to reflect the nation’s evolving security and workforce dynamics.
What’s Next?
As public discourse around military recruitment intensifies, it remains to be seen whether the Ministry of Defence or the Ghana Armed Forces will consider a formal policy review on enlistment age.
For now, the conversation ignited by key political figures is raising broader questions about access to national service, equal opportunity, and the need for recruitment policies that evolve with the times.
