Gabon: General Brice Oligui Nguema reaffirms commitment to strengthen defense and security forces’ capabilities

The transitional President of Gabon, General Brice Oligui Nguema, held a series of meetings with diplomats, donors, and foreign investors throughout the week. However, on Saturday, November 4, he dedicated time to engage with the country’s armed forces. During this meeting, General Brice Oligui Nguema reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the defense and security forces and improving their living and working conditions.

Accompanied by the minister delegated to the presidency in charge of national defense, as well as the minister of interior and security, senior generals, and members of the Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI), General Brice Oligui Nguema visited the Libreville Air Base 01 to meet with his troops.

During this meeting, the Commander-in-Chief of the Republican Guard announced his intention to bolster the ranks of the defense and security forces, currently estimated to be over 26,000.

Since the takeover of power by the defense and security forces, the transitional president has not had regular contact with his troops, making this meeting particularly significant.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review the achievements of the CTRI so far and discuss future ambitions.

The official statement indicates that these ambitions include «the acquisition of tactical equipment in the short, medium, and long term, the construction of housing, providing uniforms for personnel, and the rehabilitation of barracks across the entire national territory».

General Brice Oligui Nguema is committed to enhancing the capabilities of the defense and security forces and wishes to further the restoration process.

The statement specifies that «in this restoration effort, the CTRI aims to strengthen troop numbers and personnel training».

The General also reminded his «comrades in arms» of the importance of discipline, exemplary conduct, and a sense of patriotism.

He seeks to strengthen the trust between the Gabonese population and the defense and security forces, a key element in ensuring stability and security in the country.

Iann OBIANG