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Ghana’s First Adventist Military Chaplain Retires

Posted on Nov. 12 2025

Ghana’s First Adventist Military Chaplain Retires
Dr. Solace Asafo

[Photo: Colonel Peter Nyarko Duodu and Madam]
Accra, Ghana — In a historic ceremony Chaplain Colonel Peter Nyarko Duodu, the first Seventh-day Adventist military chaplain in Ghana, was officially retired from the Ghana Armed Forces after 24.8 years of distinguished service.
The event, held at Burma Camp, drew dignitaries from the General Conference and the West-Central Africa Division (WAD) to celebrate a legacy that has reshaped the spiritual landscape of Ghana’s military institutions.

Pastor Duodu, as he is affectionately called, entered the Ghana Armed Forces as a civilian chaplain in 2001 and was later commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces Officers Corps.
Having entered the military in 2003 as a “lone ranger,” he rose to become the first Director of Army Religious Affairs, a newly created directorate in the Ghana Armed Forces, a position he held until his retirement.
He also pioneered the Adventist Military Chaplaincy, a body now comprising 10 ordained Adventist ministers serving across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. His influence extended beyond the barracks, facilitating the appointment of Adventist chaplains in the Ghana Police and Prison Services, and overseeing the construction of chapels and parsonages in key military installations nationwide.

 “Today, I leave the service in appreciation of what the Lord God has done through me,” Colonel Duodu said.
The retirement service was marked by a stirring sermon from General Conference Treasurer, Elder Paul Douglas, titled “Sent”. Drawing from John 9:1–8 and Matthew 28:18–20, Elder Douglas reminded attendees that “God himself will give you a great salute at the end of time.” He called on Duodu and all present to remain faithful to the mission, emphasising that the same power that sustained Christ is available to every believer.

Elder Douglas’ message challenged the church to move from criticism to compassion, urging members to see suffering not as a consequence of sin, but as an opportunity to serve. “We must work while it is yet day,” he said, “for the night is coming.” His sermon echoed the new five-year theme: Grounded on the Bible, Focused on the Mission—a clarion call to preach Christ to all nations.

WAD President Pastor Bassey Udoh lauded Colonel Duodu’s trailblazing efforts, urging other countries within the Division to replicate Ghana’s success. “I challenge other countries to start military chaplaincies across WAD. What a joy it would be to have our presence in military barracks, winning soldiers for Christ.”

	Chaplain Major Gustafson Asamoah - the new Director of the Adventist Military Chaplaincy

 In a symbolic passing of the torch, Chaplain Major Gustafson Asamoah was sworn in as the new Director of the Adventist Military Chaplaincy. His appointment signals a new chapter of leadership, continuity, and mission-driven service within Ghana’s armed forces.
Chaplain Colonel Duodu’s retirement from the Ghana Armed Forces is not the end of his ministry. As an ordained Pastor of the Adventist church in Ghana he now returns to full time service in the church.
Other distinguished guests from the General Conference Were Elders Thomas Lemon, General Conference Vice President; Hensley Mooroven, General Conference Under Secretary and George Eghwake, Former Associate Treasurer of the GC.
Officers of WAD also present included the President, Pastor Dr. Bassey Udoh; the Secretary Pastor. Dr. Vincent Same and the Treasurer, Pastor Dr. Dickson Sarfo Marfo.