Ghana Names First Female Military Police Commander

On Thursday, January 15, 2026, history unfolded at Ghana Military Police headquarters as Lt. Col. Jacqueline Dela Galley took command of the elite unit. In a ceremony steeped in military tradition, she received the symbolic Badger Dog mascot from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Percy Odartey Lamptey, officially becoming the first woman to lead the GMP.

The appointment comes after years of modernization efforts within the unit. Lt. Col. Lamptey's tenure saw renovated office blocks, upgraded guardrooms, and a new transformer installation to power the high-security zone at Duala Barracks, all aimed at boosting both morale and operational efficiency.

Brigadier General Albert Assiamah, who attended as guest of honor, called Galley's appointment both historic and well-deserved. He emphasized that her leadership arrives at a crucial moment when the Military Police plays a vital role in maintaining discipline and morale across Ghana's Armed Forces.

The Ghana Military Police serves as the primary agency for maintaining law and order within the military, investigating service-related offenses, and securing high-profile installations. The unit has built a strong reputation both domestically and in international peacekeeping operations.

Why This Inspires

Lt. Col. Galley's rise to commander represents more than breaking barriers. Her appointment signals Ghana's commitment to gender equality in defense institutions while proving that merit, not gender, determines who leads. For young women across Ghana and beyond, she's living proof that no position is off-limits when talent meets opportunity.

The ceremony also highlighted the smooth transition of leadership, with Lt. Col. Lamptey moving to a new role as Deputy Director of Inspection and Monitoring. His gratitude toward the ranks reflected the unity and professionalism that define Ghana's Armed Forces.

As contemporary security threats evolve, the Military Police must adapt while maintaining its core mission. Lt. Col. Galley now carries that responsibility forward, bringing fresh perspective to an institution ready for its next chapter.

One woman's appointment just opened doors for countless others to follow.