Côte d'Ivoire confirms its leadership in security matters in West Africa. Lieutenant Colonel Jean-Claude Veh has just been appointed Chief of Staff of the ECOWAS Force in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. By becoming the third senior Ivorian officer to successively hold this highly strategic position, he illustrates the renewed confidence of the regional organization in Abidjan's military expertise.

A look back at the career of an elite soldier, whose career combines academic rigor, field experience and military diplomacy.

An academic and military training of excellence

Before rising through the ranks of the army, Jean-Claude Veh began his university studies with a DEUG II in geography at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny University of Abidjan. His military commitment took shape at the Armed Forces School (EFA) of Zambakro, from which he graduated as an officer with the 38th class (2006-2008).

His military academic career is marked by successes and international specializations:

1. Tactical specializations: Application training in infantry, cavalry and within Special Forces.
2. Armored branch: Captains' course taken at the Armored Training Center in Morocco.
3. Higher military education: Graduated from the Staff College of Saumur (France) in 2018, he then distinguished himself as the top graduate of the 2022 class of the War College of Zambakro.

A seasoned leader with experience in command

In the field, Lieutenant Colonel Veh held a variety of high-level responsibilities. These included serving as a section and action group leader in the Special Forces, commander of the Yamoussoukro base, and commander of armored units.

Also an educator, he headed the tactical cell and the staff course at the Armed Forces Academy (AFA). His expertise extends beyond national borders:

1. In 2024: He takes command of the Ivorian contingent during the prestigious multinational exercise Flintlock .
2. In 2024 and 2025: He enters national military history by becoming the first Ivorian officer invited to teach a staff course in France.
3. In 2025: He successfully ensured the security of the legislative elections in the autonomous district of Yamoussoukro and the Bélier region.

A meteoric rise and prestigious awards

Promoted to second lieutenant in 2008, he steadily rose through the ranks until his appointment to the rank of lieutenant colonel in 2023. His dedication earned him numerous distinctions:

1. National Award of Excellence 2022 (Armed Forces category).
2. Knight of the National Order of Ivory Coast.
3. Military decorations: Armed Forces Medal, Ivorian Defence Medal (silver) and French Defence Medal (bronze).

An asset for West African stability

The appointment of Lieutenant-Colonel Jean-Claude Veh to Guinea-Bissau is not merely the culmination of a brilliant individual career. It symbolizes Côte d'Ivoire's growing role as a pillar of regional peace initiatives. Through this exceptional officer, Côte d'Ivoire's entire contribution to the stability of West Africa is once again being recognized.