By Precious D. Freeman
The Deputy Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), T. Wilson Gaye, has called on Liberians at home and in the diaspora to channel their collective strength and unity toward nation-building.
Delivering a motivational speech at a high-profile event on the theme “The Significance of Friendship,” the Deputy Managing Director highlighted the power of long-standing relationships and their potential to drive national progress.
Addressing an audience of Liberians who have maintained close ties for over 30 years, Gaye expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the event.
He noted that the program’s global reach was evident through the presence of the LWSC’s Public Relations Department and press crew ensuring broad media coverage.
The Deputy Managing Director centered his message on the philosophical classification of friendship by Socrates, highlighting three types of friendships: utility, pleasure, and virtue.
He commended the group for sustaining a “friendship of virtue” over three decades, emphasizing that such bonds are built on mutual respect, shared values, and understanding.
“From what I have observed, your long-standing friendship of over 30 years falls under the third category—a friendship of virtue. This is a remarkable achievement and a foundation upon which you can build something even greater,” he remarked.
While praising the strength of the group’s social bonds, the Deputy Managing Director urged the participants to elevate their relationships beyond mere social interaction.
He encouraged them to mobilize their resources, knowledge, and professional expertise to contribute to Liberia’s growth and development.
“As Liberians, we have lived across various countries—Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, and many others. Wherever we have been, we have adapted, grown, and built relationships. However, our ultimate responsibility is to use our collective experiences, knowledge, and resources to develop our homeland,” he stated.
The Deputy Managing Director underscored the vital role that Liberians in the diaspora have played in fields such as education, governance, and business.
He referenced a study conducted between 2016 and 2017, which found that Liberians abroad possess the professional capacity to make meaningful contributions to Liberia’s development.
“This is why I encourage you to mobilize your resources—not just financial, but intellectual and professional—to help develop Liberia,” he said.
“Many of your peers have already made substantial contributions to education, governance, and the private sector. I have personally interacted with some of them, and I see great potential in what they are doing.”
Deputy Managing Director Gaye also highlighted Liberia’s upcoming full implementation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Free Movement and Employment Protocol.
He warned that if Liberians fail to prepare themselves with the right skills, education, and professional training, they could face increased competition from other ECOWAS nationals seeking employment in Liberia.
“If we do not prepare ourselves with the right skills, education, and mindset, we may find ourselves outcompeted in our own country,” he cautioned.
“I urge you to invest in education, professional training, and entrepreneurship. Even roles as simple as drivers, technicians, or administrators contribute to nation-building.”
In closing, the LWSC Deputy called on the leadership of the organization to expand their vision beyond social gatherings and focus on impactful initiatives that support Liberia’s development.
He emphasized the need to promote education, economic growth, and community empowerment.
“This organization has the potential to make a profound impact. I believe that your collective strength, knowledge, and unity can help transform Liberia into a stronger and more prosperous nation,” he said.
Deputy Managing Director Gaye concluded by saluting the group for their commitment to friendship and unity, reminding them that Liberia needs their collective strength and expertise to thrive.
“Let us go beyond the social aspects of friendship and work together to build a better future for our country,” he said. “Whether you are in Liberia, the U.S., Canada, Australia, or any other part of the world, remember that Liberia needs you.”
The speech was met with resounding applause, with participants acknowledging the importance of leveraging their long-standing bonds to create meaningful change in Liberia.
