By Laurina B. Lormia
The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, has directed the Minister of National Defense, Geraldine Janet George, to collaborate with relevant and line entities to assess military facilities across the country.
This directive aims to assess the barracks in Harper, Maryland County, Sanniquellie, Nimba County, and Tubmanburg, Bomi County, to begin renovations.
Delivering his 68th Armed Forces Day message, President Boakai underscored the essential role the military plays in safeguarding Liberia’s territorial integrity, maintaining peace, and ensuring national security.
According to him, the Government of Liberia under his administration recognizes that addressing these challenges is crucial for the continued strength, effectiveness and preparedness of the AFL.
He stated that, the Government is committed to working tirelessly to improve the living conditions, training, and resources available to military personnel.
He added that, Armed Forces Day is a time to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of military personnel. “Their unwavering commitment and patriotism have been the bedrock of our nation’s defense. It is through their tireless efforts that we enjoy peace and stability, and for this, we are eternally grateful,” he said.
He urged citizens to acknowledge the challenges the Armed Forces is faced with. Issues such as inadequate housing resulting to overcrowding at existing military barracks The CIC also flagged the inadequacy of budgetary allocation for recruitment, training, and personnel welfare, which according to him are pressing needs posing substantial obstacles to personnel effectiveness.
He noted that, his government is exploring various avenues to ensure that the Armed Forces are well-equipped and adequately supported to meet the demands of the critical role they have on their shoulders to play.
“It is in this regard that we have commenced and will continue the renovation of existing military barracks around the country to ease the problem of congestion at the Edward Binyah Kesselly and other functional barracks,” President Boakai stated.
“To the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your service. Your bravery and dedication inspire us all. As you stand guard at our borders, protect our airspace, and secure our waters, know that the entire nation stands with you in solidarity and support,” he stressed.
President Boakai mentioned that, the birth pains of his administration at about this time last year found manifestation in the mound of challenges facing our men and women in arms that we had inherited less than a month earlier.
President Boakai called on all citizens to always remember the sacrifices made by those who have served before us, and let us honor their memory by continuing to uphold the values of courage, integrity, and patriotism, and may God bless the Armed Forces of Liberia.
President Boakai, meanwhile, extended his heartfelt welcome and gratitude to President Bio of the Republic of Sierra Leone, for the great honor to share the celebratory occasion with citizens of Liberia who have chosen a noble and patriotic career of service to the country. “This is a career that you are not only familiar with, but so very much deeply experienced in,” he concluded.