By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
MONROVIA – The Managing Director of Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), Mr. B. Ellas Shoniyin, has urged Nimbaians and all Liberians to engage with investment companies peacefully and constructively, rather than resorting to violence.
Speaking at a two-day stakeholder engagement aimed at resolving conflicts in the ArcelorMittal Liberia concession area, Mr. Shoniyin warned that violence and instability have driven investors away from Liberia over the past seven years.
He noted that neighboring countries like Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone are attracting more investors due to their stable and peaceful environments, while Liberia continues to face challenges because of conflicts surrounding mining operations.
“Violence is not development,” Mr. Shoniyin told community leaders and youths. “It discourages investors and harms the nation. We must learn to engage in dialogue rather than destroy opportunities that can help us grow.”
He called on traditional and community leaders to act as problem solvers instead of encouraging or tolerating unrest, emphasizing that leaders must promote peace and dialogue whenever tensions arise.
Highlighting ArcelorMittal Liberia’s impact in Nimba, Mr. Shoniyin revealed that out of over 5,000 Liberians employed by the company, approximately 30 percent are from Nimba County. He noted that this employment has provided significant support to families and local communities.
In Gbapa Town, resident Ma Betty K. Gono commended the increased engagement between the company and the community.
She observed that through continuous dialogue facilitated by ADMA, more locals are now participating in mining-related activities, fostering trust and cooperation.
The two-day engagement was organized by Nimba Education Guide, a local NGO promoting peace, education, and dialogue across Nimba County.
Its Executive Director, Armstrong Gobac Selekpoh, explained that the program brought together youth leaders, women’s groups, chiefs, and stakeholders from all 19 districts of the county.
He said the initiative aims to replace conflict with cooperation, enabling mining companies and communities to work together for the development of Nimba and Liberia.
Mr. Shoniyin concluded by stressing that peace is the foundation for national progress. “When we choose dialogue over violence, we attract investment, create jobs, and build a better Liberia for everyone,” he said.
