Monrovia, Liberia —Liberia can no longer afford to be complacent in an increasingly linked world, according to President Joseph N. Boakai, who has issued a new warning about mounting security problems, illegal migration, health risks, and pressure on the country’s natural resources.
President Boakai informed Cabinet members at the opening of the 20th Cabinet meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the Tea House of the Executive Mansion, that Liberia must continue to be watchful as growing regional and global occurrences continue to put new strain on public health, national security, and economic stability.
“The world is no longer remote, warning ministers that increased global movement means Liberia cannot isolate itself from emerging threats,” he added.
Also, Boakai disclosed that the government is becoming increasingly concerned over reports that more than 80,000 Burkinabé nationals are currently residing in Liberia, with many reportedly engaged in agriculture and mining activities across various parts of the country.
The president acknowledged that foreigners have the right to live in Liberia lawfully, but he also voiced concerns about undocumented migration and the growing environmental effects of illicit mining, especially in protected forest areas. “What is troubling is the mining sector, warning that continued illegal activities inside reserve forests could undermine tourism, conservation efforts and agricultural production,” he stated.
The Liberian leader further disclosed that reports from security operations carried out in mining towns are already being reviewed by authorities following earlier investigations that indicated misbehavior by certain security personnel. In addition, President Boakai indicated that the government is keeping an eye on developments related to xenophobic incidents in South Africa because of worries about Liberians’ safety overseas.
In terms of governance, he issued a new direction to cut down on government officials’ non-essential abroad travel, contending that public employees should put service delivery and implementation ahead of pointless overseas engagements. “We want to spend more time delivering for the people,” he emphasized.
The president emphasized continuing road infrastructure projects, particularly significant construction in Lofa County; local government implementation initiatives; educational initiatives; and humanitarian interventions around the nation, in addition to security concerns. Boakai encouraged Cabinet members to concentrate more intently on implementation and responsibility while praising public officials for continuous development projects, even as he acknowledged the rising hurdles.
