Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has vowed to sustain Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs, directing the country’s security institutions to remain focused on drug trafficking, strengthen border security and protect the nation’s national interests.
“We are not stopping. We will continue to fight for this country,” President Boakai declared Thursday while addressing the 23rd Cabinet Meeting at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia.
The President’s remarks come amid heightened national attention on Liberia’s drug problem following a series of major drug seizures and investigations involving security personnel.
He stressed that the government’s response must go beyond intercepting narcotics, emphasizing the need for stronger border controls to address the wider security implications of drug trafficking.
“It is not just the drug trafficking. Our borders, we have to keep secure,” President Boakai said.
The Liberian leader called for greater coordination among security institutions and urged officials to exercise professionalism, sound judgment and integrity in carrying out their responsibilities.
He cautioned security officials against allowing public criticism or external pressure to interfere with decisions requiring professional judgment.
“They should not make you not do what you’re supposed to do because if you didn’t have the knowledge, the expertise, the support, you wouldn’t be where you are,” President Boakai said.
He urged security personnel to act with integrity and ensure that individuals who violate the law face appropriate measures.
“Act with a clear mind with honesty, and ensure that those who go outside the law would face appropriate measures,” he added.
President Boakai acknowledged the complexity of Liberia’s drug problem but rejected any suggestion that his administration would retreat from the campaign.
He said combating illicit drugs is essential to protecting public safety, safeguarding Liberia’s young people and protecting the country’s international reputation.
The President’s renewed directive places continued pressure on the security apparatus to strengthen drug interdiction, border control and cooperation among national security institutions.
Beyond the security situation, President Boakai highlighted what he described as progress across several areas of his administration.
He pointed to developments in healthcare, timely salary payments and infrastructure projects as examples of the government’s efforts to improve public services and living conditions.
The President commended ministers and civil servants for their sacrifices in serving the Liberian people, particularly the personal and family time devoted to their public responsibilities.
He also encouraged members of his Cabinet to be more visible at national and public events, saying the presence of government officials demonstrates institutional support for national programs and achievements.
President Boakai also emphasized the importance of expanding and improving Liberia’s road network to better connect counties and communities.
He noted that the road toward Côte d’Ivoire is now accessible while acknowledging the contributions of government institutions involved in financing and implementing road development projects.
However, he singled out the Roberts International Airport road project for particular attention, signaling that the government will continue to monitor the implementation of critical infrastructure projects.
President Boakai concluded by stressing that Liberia’s progress requires collective effort, cooperation and a shared commitment to national development.
He urged Liberians to continue supporting the country’s development efforts as his administration works to deliver tangible results and improve the lives of citizens.
The President reaffirmed that his administration remains focused on implementing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, with national security, infrastructure, healthcare and essential public services remaining among its key priorities.
