Reported by: Prince Saah
Monrovia, Liberia – The Board of Directors of the United Methodist University (UMU) has unanimously appointed Rev. Dr. David M. Togba as the institution’s new president, following what officials described as a transparent, merit-based six-month recruitment process to identify a successor to the late Rev. Dr. Emmanuel F. Bailey.
The appointment was formally announced Monday, June 29, 2026, through a resolution adopted by the Board after accepting the report of the Presidential Search Committee, which was established following Dr. Bailey’s untimely passing.
Speaking with reporters, Board Chairman Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., Resident Bishop of the Liberia Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church, disclosed that the committee was tasked with conducting a comprehensive search for a new leader to steer one of Liberia’s leading faith-based universities.
Reading the resolution, the Bishop said that the search committee carried out extensive stakeholder consultations, candidate evaluations, interviews, and deliberations before narrowing the field to three highly qualified finalists. Rev. Dr. Togba emerged as the Board’s preferred candidate and was unanimously confirmed as president.
The UMC Bishop explained the resolution states that Dr. Togba’s appointment will take effect upon the signing of his employment contract and his formal assumption of office in accordance with the university’s statutes and bylaws. Also, Bishop Quire Jr., signed the resolution on behalf of the Board.
At the end, he expressed profound appreciation to the Presidential Search Committee for what it described as its professionalism, integrity, and dedication throughout the selection process. The Bishop also congratulated Dr. Togba on his appointment and pledged its full support as he assumes leadership of the university.
Speaking after the announcement, members of the search committee emphasized that the recruitment process was guided solely by merit, academic qualifications, leadership experience, and the candidates’ vision for the future of the university. Moreover, committee members disclosed that seven candidates were initially considered before the list was reduced to three finalists for submission to the board of directors.
Responding to questions about the new president’s qualifications, the committee said Dr. Togba possesses the academic credentials, administrative experience, and institutional knowledge required to lead the university, noting that he has previously served in senior leadership roles at UMU. The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for United Methodist University as it seeks to build on its legacy of Christian education, academic excellence, and leadership development under new stewardship.
