03/06/2026
Official Statement Delivered By His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. President of the Republic of Liberia & Chair of the National Security Council
At the Launching of the National Security Strategy of the Republic of Liberia (NSSRL)
Tea House, Executive Mansion
Monrovia, Liberia
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Honorable Vice President;
Senator Momo G. Cyrus; Chair, Senate Committee on Defense, Intelligence, Security, and Veteran Affairs;
Honorable Gizzie K. Kollince, Chair, House Committee on National Security;
Honorable Samuel Kofi Woods, II, National Security Advisor
Counselor Oswald N. Tweh, Minister, Ministry of Justice;
Honorable Major General Daniel D. Ziankahn (Retired); Military Advisor;
Distinguished Members of the National Security Council and the Joint Security Committee;
Honorable Ministers and Officials of the Government of Liberia;
Representatives of Our National Security Institutions;
Fellow Liberians:
The critical importance of security in a world fraught with global challenges cannot be overemphasized. Security is foundational—it is both a prerequisite and a catalyst for development. It is for this reason that I am deeply pleased to officially launch the National Security Strategy of the Republic of Liberia (NSSRL).
Today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey toward building a peaceful, secure, and resilient nation. This Strategy is not merely a document; it is a reflection of our shared aspirations as a people and a clear roadmap for safeguarding Liberia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, national stability, and democratic progress.
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the nature of threats to national security continues to evolve. From transnational organized crime and cyber threats to climate-related risks, economic vulnerabilities, and emerging public health challenges, our response must be proactive, coordinated, and forward-looking. The National Security Strategy provides us with the necessary framework to meet these challenges effectively.
Grounded in a comprehensive assessment of Liberia’s security environment, this Strategy prioritizes the protection of our citizens, the strengthening of our institutions, and the promotion of sustainable peace and development. Importantly, it recognizes that national security is not the sole responsibility of the traditional security sector, but a shared duty that encompasses good governance, justice, economic opportunity, and social cohesion.
As Chair of the National Security Council, I reaffirm this Administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the capacity, professionalism, and accountability of our security institutions. We will continue to invest in intelligence coordination, border security, and community-based approaches that foster trust between citizens and the state. Our true security rests upon how well we fulfill our democratic promise. The dividends of peace and security must trickle down to ordinary Liberians. Simply stated, as to how we manage the resources of the country so that no one is left behind. When this happens, security will be assured.
Deep in the heart of our nation are our chiefs, elders, local leaders, Superintendents, community leaders, civil society, and our religious community, who must be commended for their indispensable role in supporting our national security architecture.
Equally, this Strategy underscores the importance of partnership. We will deepen collaboration with regional and international partners, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Mano River Union (MRU), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN), to address shared security challenges and promote collective stability.
Every citizen can be assured that their safety, security, and well-being remain at the heart of our national agenda. This Strategy is designed to ensure that every Liberian—regardless of location or circumstance—can live in dignity, free from fear, and with confidence in the future.
I have been informed that a series of consultations preceded the final design and development of this Strategy. Let me commend all stakeholders who contributed to its development, including government institutions, security agencies, civil society organizations, and our international partners. Your insights and commitment have been invaluable. Let me commend the National Security Advisor and his team, the Minister of Justice, and the entire Joint Security team for this historic success. Let me state that strategies change with time and conditions.
As we launch this National Security Strategy, I call upon all actors, public and private, to support its implementation. Let us work together, with unity of purpose and clarity of vision, to secure our nation for generations to come.
It is my honor and privilege to officially launch the National Security Strategy of the Republic of Liberia.
May God bless our efforts and the Republic of Liberia.
