The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has represented Liberia at the first-ever African Chiefs of Defense Staff Summit (ACDSS) 2025, held from August 25–27, 2025, in Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Colonel Kezelee G. Gwesa, Commandant of the Armed Forces Training Command, on behalf of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Major General Davidson F. Forleh, joined defense leaders from 37 African countries to discuss how the continent can work together in tackling today’s toughest security challenges.
The summit, held under the theme, “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defense Collaboration”, focused on strengthening border security and cooperation among African nations; combating terrorism through both military and non-military approaches; using artificial intelligence and modern technology to enhance regional security; building strong public-private partnerships to resource Africa’s defense needs; and enhancing maritime security and protecting Africa’s Blue Economy.
Speaking at the opening, Nigeria’s Vice President, H.E. Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON (representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR), emphasized the importance of collective action in ensuring peace and stability across the continent.
The Chiefs of Defense Staff further agreed to make the ACDSS an annual summit, providing a unique platform for African nations to develop homegrown solutions to Africa’s security needs.
According to an AFL release, Liberia’s active participation in this historic event highlights the AFL’s continued commitment to regional peace, unity, and cooperation in the spirit of “African solutions to African problems”.