Sanniquellie City, Nimba County – Mr. B. Ellas Shoniyin, Managing Director of Africa Development Management Associates ADMA, has urged Nimbaians and other Liberians to interact with investment firms peacefully and constructively rather than violently.
Speaking at a two-day stakeholder engagement to settle disputes in the ArcelorMittal Liberia concession area, Mr. Shoniyin cautioned that over the previous seven years, violence and instability have deterred investment from Liberia.
He stated that while Liberia is still having difficulties because of disputes over mining operations, nations like Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone are drawing more investors because of their stable and tranquil surroundings. “Violence is not development,” Mr. Shoniyin told community leaders and youths. “It drives investors away and hurts the nation. We must learn to dialogue instead of destroying what can help us grow.”
Instead of promoting or putting up with discontent, he called on traditional and community leaders to take on the role of problem solvers. He asserts that anytime conflicts emerge, leaders must encourage harmony and communication.
Mr. Shoniyin also emphasized the significance of ArcelorMittal Liberia in Nimba, stating that around 30% of the more than 5,000 Liberians employed by the company are from Nimba County. He said that many local towns and families had benefited from this employment.
Ma Betty K. Gono, a resident of Gbapa Town, commended the company’s improved interaction with locals. She pointed out that more residents are now engaged in mining-related activities thanks to ADMA’s ongoing conversation, which has improved collaboration and confidence.
Nimba Education Guide, a local NGO that promotes conversation, education, and peace in Nimba County, hosted the two-day event. The initiative brought together youth leaders, women’s organizations, chiefs, and stakeholders from all 19 districts in the county, according to its Executive Director, Armstrong Gobac Selekpoh.
According to him, the objective is to replace conflict with cooperation so that communities and mining firms may collaborate for the development of Liberia and Nimba. In closing, Mr. Shoniyin emphasized that peace is the cornerstone of national advancement.
“When we choose dialogue over violence, we attract investment, create jobs, and build a better Liberia for everyone,” he said.
