As Finance Minister Pledges Continued Support For Security Sector
Reported by: Prince Saah
Paynesville City – The Liberia National Police Academy has graduated 193 servicemen. The ceremony was on Friday, June 12, raising the country’s ability to enforce the law. As 193 officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) graduated from the National Police Training Academy, Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s security institutions.
The minister also commended the security industry’s leadership for what he called the responsible use of public funds and clear improvements at the police academy. “As I walked around and saw the transformation, I could only say thank you for using the resources we gave you wisely, recalling his previous visit to the academy several years ago while serving as Budget Director, he added.
Liberia’s finance minister informed the security sector that President Joseph N. Boakai is still a staunch supporter of law enforcement and national security, despite acknowledging the mounting demands on government funds and the fierce competition among ministries and agencies for budgetary support. “When it comes to security, the president is the chief advocate. The challenge is not willingness; the challenge is the size of available resources,” Ngafuan told the gathering.
A stronger national economy will enable more investment in police training, infrastructure, and operational capability, he stated, adding that the government seeks to boost revenue creation with the aim to increase support for important areas, including security. Ngafuan also praised the cooperation between the Liberia National Police and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, stating that recent victories in the fight against organised crime and drug trafficking were made possible by inter-agency cooperation.
He emphasised the significance of coordinated law enforcement efforts by citing recent anti-drug operations and significant seizures. “The partnership between the police and the LDEA is producing results. Strong cooperation has contributed significantly to recent successful operations,” the minister said.
He used the occasion to issue a passionate appeal to the graduates to resist corruption and remain committed to public service despite the financial temptations that may arise during their careers. “We can never pay you as much as drug dealers may offer, but your values must be stronger than any temptation. You should wear this uniform not just on your body, but in your character,” the minister said.
Describing the country’s drug crisis as a threat to Liberia’s future, Ngafuan characterized drug abuse as a tragedy that destroys families and robs young people of their potential. “Every drug addict represents a mother in pain, a father in pain and a family in pain. Drug abuse is like watching an advance funeral because it slowly destroys a person’s future while they are still alive,” he said.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Attorney General and Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh challenged the graduates to uphold integrity and professionalism, emphasizing that justice begins long before cases reach the courtroom. “Justice begins with the police officer who responds professionally to a crime scene. Justice begins with the investigator who records facts accurately and without bias,” Tweh said.
He reminded the graduates that they are now part of Liberia’s broader justice system, adding that their conduct will directly influence public confidence in law enforcement institutions. “The uniform you wear must never become a symbol of fear. It must become a symbol of trust,” the justice minister declared.
Tweh warned against corruption, abuse of authority and political influence, urging the officers to remain faithful to the law and the oath they have taken. “There will be moments when your character is tested. No promotion, no favour and no personal benefit is worth compromising your integrity,” he said.
The graduation ceremony marked another milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Liberia’s security architecture through professional training, institutional reforms and improved operational readiness.
