By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
PAYNESVILLE – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, on Monday delivered a powerful message of patriotism, discipline, and national unity to student leaders gathered at the African Student Leadership Forum held at Best Brains University in Thinkers Village, Paynesville.
Speaking to students drawn from the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), and community colleges across all 15 counties, the President described the youth as the “future of Liberia” and urged them to prepare themselves for leadership with integrity and purpose.
President Boakai revealed that he made an unscheduled appearance at the event after a change in his travel schedule allowed him to “spend a few minutes” with the students.
He emphasized the importance of the moment, noting that the young delegates were present not by accident, but because “your peers trust you” and because they are “preparing for something bigger than today.”
Liberia Is the Only Country We Have
In a fatherly and candid tone, the President called on the young people to love and defend their country, stressing that patriotism must guide their actions—not just in words, but in behavior.
“Put Liberia above every personal interest and every political interest,” he said. “Patriotism is choosing not to destroy the very place you want to lead tomorrow.”
The Liberian leader reminded students that holding leaders accountable is both a right and a responsibility, but added that such engagement must be constructive.
“Hold me accountable. Hold your Senators, Representatives, Ministers, and local leaders accountable—but do it in a way that builds, not destroys,” President Boakai urged.
He also referenced a famous quote by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, lamenting the tendency of some youth to celebrate individuals who exploit national resources.
“This scenario is so sad,” he remarked, warning that the future of young people must not be mortgaged by corrupt actors.
A Call for Responsible Engagement
President Boakai cautioned student leaders to use their voices wisely.
“The power of your voice is real. Use it to propose solutions, not to create confusion. Use it to bring people together, not divide communities,” he said.
He encouraged students to base their criticisms on facts and to challenge leadership with the intent to improve Liberia, not undermine it.
Turning to education, the President stressed the importance of academic discipline and personal development.
“Your books matter. Your exams matter. Your discipline matters,” he said. “One day, some of you will run ministries, represent Liberia abroad, sit on the Supreme Court, or build businesses that transform communities. But none of that will happen if you do not take your education seriously today.”
Unity as a National Imperative
Citing the national anthem’s famous line, “In union strong success is sure,” President Boakai reiterated that Liberia’s progress depends on unity.
“Liberia can only succeed when we stand together; not county against county, tribe against tribe, young against old, or student against government,” he said. “Unity is not weakness. Unity is strength.”
He challenged the young leaders to become “bridge builders” who reject division, hatred, and violence.
Leadership as Service
Sharing personal reflections, the President reminded the students that true leadership demands humility, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to country.
“Leadership is not a title. Leadership is service,” he said. “If you prepare yourselves for that kind of leadership, Liberia will rise—because you will rise.”
President Boakai ended his remarks with a reaffirmation of his confidence in Liberia’s youth and his signature call for national commitment.
“I believe in you. I trust you. And I know that when the time comes, you will lead this country with integrity and love,” he said.
The forum brought together students, administrators, and youth leaders for discussions on leadership, development, and civic engagement—reflecting a growing national emphasis on youth participation in governance and nation-building.
