Accra, Feb. 2, GNA - Mr. Kwadwo Okyere Mpiani, the Chief of Staff and Minister for Presidential Affairs, has called on the security services to go the extra mile to provide maximum security to ensure that the series of historic landmark events lined up between now and 2008 in the country were held successfully.

He mentioned the celebration of the 50 years of nationhood, the climax of which, would be on March 6, the African Union (AU) summit to be held in June, and the African Cup of Nations Cup tournament (CAN 2008) among others.

Mr Mpiani said the security services should not only give Heads of State and Government from Africa and across the world as well as other dignitaries expected in the country to participate in these events the necessary security protection, but should also make sure that a conducive environment existed to enable them to have a taste of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality.

He was speaking at an end-of-year WASSA held for the VIP Protection Unit at the Castle Gardens on Friday. The Chief of Staff recognised the sacrifices personnel of the security services have made and continue to make towards the stability and protection of the country's democracy. Mr. Mpani said the President of Ghana was an embodiment of the state and as such his protection was important for the sustenance of the nation's stability.

He gave the assurance that the Unit would be given every needed support to facilitate its work and to minimise the risk faced by personnel in the performance of their duties. The Presidential Security Co-ordinator, Lieutenant Colonel E.A. Mensah, cautioned members of security services to avoid complacency, adding that, they should brace themselves up for harder work. He reminded them that the protection of the Presidency was the pivot around which, the nation's security revolved and for that matter, their resolve, posture, alertness, discipline and dedication should be without blemish.

Lt. Col. Mensah also asked personnel of the Unit to consider their call to duty at the Presidency as an honour to serve their country.

He stated that, last year was fruitful and praised the security personnel for their resilience and dedication to duty. He conveyed the Unit's congratulations to President Kufuor on his election as Chairman of the AU, which, he said, was a recognition of his good leadership.

"We all share in the joy of his elevation."