Intelligence Chief · Author · Statesman
A distinguished voice in strategic thinking, national security, and African transformation. From classroom teacher to the highest echelons of Ghana's intelligence apparatus, his journey embodies dedication to nation-building.
Kofi Bentum Quantson was born on July 6, 1934 at Axim in the Western Region of Ghana. After his secondary education at Clayborn College, Sekondi, he trained as a teacher at Wesley College, Kumasi, taught for some time before pursuing further studies at the University of Ghana, Legon in 1962.
He received professional law enforcement training at the Police College (now Police Academy) and the erstwhile International Police Academy in Washington D.C. He later undertook advanced Security-Intelligence studies in:
From the classroom to the corridors of power, a life dedicated to Ghana's progress.
Began his career as a teacher, teaching in a number of schools. Later worked as a features writer at the National Daily, the Ghanaian Times Newspaper, before embarking on his journey in law enforcement and intelligence.
Joined the Special Branch of the Ghana Police Service as a young detective. Through dedication and expertise, he rose through the ranks to become Director in 1979. He later became the first Director when the Special Branch was reorganized and renamed the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), currently known as the National Intelligence Bureau.
First BNI DirectorWhile serving as Director of BNI, he was assigned additional responsibility as Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, demonstrating his versatility and expertise across multiple security domains.
Retired from the Ghana Police Service after decades of distinguished service in intelligence and criminal investigations.
Recalled from retirement to establish the Narcotics Control Board of Ghana, serving as its Executive Secretary. He also doubled as the National Security Coordinator until January 2001, finally retiring in March of the same year.
National Security CoordinatorDakar, Senegal
Awarded in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the war against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in West Africa.
Ghana Independence Day
On the 40th Anniversary of Ghana's Independence, awarded the Companion of the Order of the Volta, Civil Division, for his meritorious Public Service to the nation.
Throughout his distinguished career spanning multiple decades, Kofi Bentum Quantson has remained committed to Ghana's security and development. His work in intelligence, law enforcement, and national security coordination has left an indelible mark on the nation's institutions.