Hundreds Storm BTC as AFL Launches 2026 Recruitment Drive

Monrovia, Liberia: The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has officially commenced its 2026 nationwide recruitment exercise, with hundreds of applicants converging at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) in Monrovia as the Central Region phase opens, covering Montserrado, Grand Bassa, and Margibi Counties under a structured national intake process that marks the beginning of a major force expansion drive.

‎The exercise forms part of a government-approved recruitment plan under President Joseph Boakai aimed at enrolling approximately 600 to 650 personnel annually through 2029, with the long-term objective of strengthening the AFL to an estimated 5,000 personnel to enhance national defense capacity and institutional readiness.

‎At the BTC, early screening activities began under strict operational control as applicants underwent preliminary documentation and eligibility checks, with authorities emphasizing that the entire process is free of charge and strictly merit-based, leaving no room for influence, lobbying, or external recommendations.

‎“This recruitment exercise is grounded in merit and transparency, and any applicant presenting a recommendation letter will be automatically disqualified,” AFL Chief of Public Affairs, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen T. Tarplah, stated, underscoring that the policy is designed to eliminate favoritism and protect the integrity of the selection process.

He further noted that “all stages of the recruitment, including academic verification, physical assessment, and medical screening, are being closely monitored,” adding that live camera documentation has been introduced to ensure accountability and strengthen public confidence in the process.

‎The recruitment exercise has been divided into four geographic regions to ensure nationwide participation, beginning with the Central Region at BTC from April 27 to May 15, followed by the Western Region in Tubmanburg City from May 18 to May 29, the Northern Region in Gbarnga from June 1 to June 12, and concluding with the South-Eastern Region in Zwedru and Harper from June 15 to June 27.

‎Eligibility requirements remain firm, requiring applicants to be Liberian citizens between 18 and 35 years old, possess a minimum high school diploma with original WAEC or WASSCE certificates, and present valid identification documents such as a national ID card, voter ID, birth certificate, or passport, as result checkers are not accepted for verification.

‎Applicants are also required to pass physical fitness assessments and medical examinations, including mandatory drug testing, as part of the screening process designed to ensure only qualified candidates advance into the recruitment pipeline.