By Laurina B. Lormia
Project design and management expert, Cyrus Saygbe, has been named as Acting Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA).
He is expected to steer the affairs of NaFAA pending the conclusion of the suspension of Emma Metieh-Glassco, who remains under investigations over managerial and inefficiencies recommended by the NaFFA’s Board of Directors.
Saygbe is a seasoned professional with over 16 years of experience in Liberia successfully led the implementation of at least 10 development projects in collaboration with a range of esteemed partners, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the World Bank, the European Union, the United Nations Development Programme, and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, among others.
His work spans a variety of sectors, such as agriculture and fisheries, private sector development, education, construction, democracy and governance, digital connectivity, gender and youth development.
He is also a chartered member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) Liberia Chapter, where he currently serves as the president of the Board of Directors.
Saygbe served as the Private Sector Project Management Specialist at USAID/Liberia, where he applied his expertise to foster impactful developmental initiatives across Liberia.
As Saygbe assumes his new role, industry stakeholders and the general public will be watching closely to see how he steers NaFAA through this transition.
The outcome of the investigation will not only determine Glassco’s fate but could also set the tone for the administration’s broader anti-corruption agenda.
President Joseph Boakai’s decision signals his administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency and institutional integrity.
The government has assured the public that the ongoing investigation will be thorough and impartial, reinforcing the President’s stance on accountability.
On Thursday, February 13, 2025, President Boakai suspended Madam Glassco upon what government termed as NaFAA Board of Directors’ recommendation pending further investigations by the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
The recommendation among other things was said to be in accordance with Section 3.9.2 of the Act that established the Authority.
President Boakai’s action also referenced a communication from the Office of the Ombudsman, which recommended Glassco’s suspension and investigation based on allegations of insulting behavior.
In February, Madam Glassco expressed utter amazement by the allegations, especially considering the positive outcome from her last audit. She noted “I am deeply concerned about the motives behind the decision and the impact it has on my reputation.”
She expressed dismay on OK FM when she acknowledged that there may be a need for authorities to do their job, but will not allow anyone to defame her hard-earned character.
According to her, she remains stern in protecting her integrity, especially amidst serious accusations, feeling that the actions are intended to malign her character and discredit her service to the government.
She further committed to availing herself to the process and ensuring the allegations are thoroughly addressed.
However, the suspension of Glassco has ignited widespread speculation, with many calling for clarity on the allegations against her.
The fisheries sector is a key economic driver for Liberia, and the appointment of Saygbe aims to ensure continuity and stability during this critical period. With a wealth of experience in public administration, Saygbe is expected to bring steady leadership while authorities conduct their probe into Glassco’s tenure.
This unfolding situation remains a pivotal moment for Liberia’s fisheries sector, and all eyes are on the government’s next steps.