Former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul has expressed satisfaction with the allocation of resources for Ghana’s military in the 2026 national budget, while cautioning that the planned purchases for the Air Force may not fully meet operational needs.
Speaking to the press, Nitiwul said, “I am pleased that the budget has provided resources for the military. At least the Air Force is set to receive some funding, which is a positive step.”
However, he raised concerns over the nature of the proposed acquisitions. “What they intend to buy is what worries me. The budget talks about purchasing planes, but for defence purposes, the Air Force requires jet fighters. When you hear ‘jet’ in a military context, it refers to a combat-ready fighter jet, not just any aircraft,” he explained.
Nitiwul emphasised that jet fighters are crucial for protecting the country’s airspace and ensuring national security, suggesting that simply acquiring standard planes would not adequately strengthen the Air Force’s capabilities.
Ghana’s military budget for 2026 is projected to be approximately GH¢10.7 billion, representing a significant increase from previous years and a sharp rise in defense spending. This budget includes funds for retooling the Ghana Armed Forces, such as the procurement of new aircraft for the Ghana Air Force, and will also go towards personnel compensation, military feeding, and infrastructure projects like forward operating bases.
Weeks ago, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced that the government will commence procurement processes for the acquisition of four modern helicopters, one long-range aircraft, and one medium-range aircraft in 2026 to strengthen the operational efficiency of the Ghana Air Force.
Presenting the 2026 Budget on Thursday, November 13, he said the aircraft are expected to be delivered within four years after the procurement processes are finalised, explaining that the move forms part of the government’s broader commitment to retooling the country’s security forces and enhancing national defence capabilities.
He emphasised the relevance of the Ghana Air Force, which, according to him, remains a key pillar of national defence, providing aerial surveillance, troop and logistics transport, air defence, maritime patrol support, disaster response, and medical evacuation operations.
