Kofi Ampeah Woode
Change at the Command of Ghana Army’s Special Operations Brigade (ASOB) was effected with Brigadier General Isaac (Brig Gen) Nicholas Paintsil, handing over as Commander to Brig Gen Richard Kwame Mensah.
A Change of Command ceremony was held at the forecourt of the Brigade Headquarters, Gondar Barracks, Burma Camp, Accra, on Wednesday 7 May 2025, with the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Ghana Army – Major General (Maj Gen) Lawrence Kweku Gbetanu as the Guest of Honour.
A citation presented on behalf of Officers, Soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff of the ASOB to former Commander read;
“In recognition of outstanding leadership, vision, and dedication during the formative stages of the Army Special Operations Brigade, Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil is honoured for his exemplary service in shaping and advancing the Brigade’s capabilities.
He has played a foundational role in establishing the Brigade’s ethos, training standards, and operational readiness through strategic foresight, unwavering commitment, and operational excellence.
Since the Brigade’s formation in 2021, Brigadier General Paintsil has been an integral part of its development. He served as the inaugural Deputy Brigade Commander and subsequently assumed command in 2023, leading with dynamic and transformational leadership.
His leadership was instrumental in fostering a culture of Innovation and adaptability, ensuring the Brigade’s ability to address complex and evolving security challenges.
During his tenure as Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Paintsil facilitated numerous Infrastructural projects to enhance the Brigade’s operational effectiveness. Through collaboration with local and international partners, he spearheaded the development of facilities, many of which have been completed.
These facilities have provided Special Forces operators with high-quality, effective training, elevating their skillsets to a level of proficiency demonstrated by the Brigade’s successes in international theatres.
Brigadier General Paintsil’s commitment to the welfare of personnel under his command, coupled with his kind and courteous demeanour, is commendable. His direct engagement with personnel to address their concerns significantly boosted morale within the Brigade.
The various social activities he championed strengthened esprit de corps and reinforced education on military ethics. His dedication and expertise during this critical phase of the Brigade’s development have left an enduring legacy.”
As Brig Gen RK Mensah – former Deputy Commander, ASOB ascends in designation as Commander, Brig Gen IN Paintsil assumes command as the General Officer Commanding, Southern Command.
By Kofi Ampeah-Woode
