MONROVIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has assured Liberians that his government is firmly in control of the situation along the Liberia–Guinea border, emphasizing diplomacy and regional cooperation as the primary tools for resolving recent tensions.
In a national address, the President said developments in the Sorlumba area of Foya District, Lofa County, had raised legitimate concerns among citizens, but stressed that the government had acted swiftly and responsibly to prevent escalation.
“As President and Commander-in-Chief, it is my duty to keep the Liberian people informed and to assure you that the peace and security of our nation remain my top priorities,” Boakai said.
Diplomacy at the Center of Response
President Boakai disclosed that Liberia immediately engaged the Government of Guinea through diplomatic channels, while also working with Sierra Leone under the framework of the Mano River Union.
He said the three countries have reaffirmed their collective commitment to peace and agreed to restore the status quo along their shared borders.
“I am encouraged that the government of Guinea has issued instructions for its forces to return to their previous positions,” the President noted, describing the move as a significant step toward de-escalation.
Security Forces on Alert
While diplomatic efforts continue, Boakai assured the public that Liberia’s security apparatus remains vigilant.
He said the Armed Forces of Liberia, the Liberia National Police, and other joint security institutions are actively monitoring the situation and working closely with local authorities to maintain calm.
International Support for Peaceful Resolution
The President also acknowledged the role of regional and international partners, including the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union, which have encouraged restraint and dialogue.
“Their messages of encouragement and solidarity reaffirm Liberia’s standing in the community of nations,” Boakai said.
“Peace Is Strength, Not Weakness”
In a key message, the President pushed back against any perception that diplomacy signals weakness.
“Our pursuit of a peaceful resolution is not a sign of weakness, but rather a demonstration of strength,” he said, reflecting on Liberia’s own history of conflict and recovery.
“It is easy to destroy, but much more difficult to rebuild.”
Background: Rising Border Concerns
The address follows recent reports of Guinean military presence near Liberia’s border in Lofa County, which sparked anxiety among residents and drew national attention.
Border communities, particularly in Foya District, had mobilized amid fears of potential confrontation, prompting swift government intervention.
Call for Calm and National Unity
President Boakai urged citizens, especially those in border communities, to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.
“I call upon all citizens to remain law-abiding and to allow our security authorities and diplomatic channels to do their work,” he said.
He emphasized that Liberia’s long-standing commitment to peace, both domestically and across the region, continues to guide government actions.
A Nation Focused on Stability
The President concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s identity as a peaceful nation and its determination to preserve stability at all costs.
“The peace we enjoy today is the result of our collective sacrifice… and this government will do everything within its power to protect and preserve it,” he said.
As diplomatic engagements continue, the government’s approach signals a deliberate effort to resolve tensions through dialogue rather than confrontation—aimed at safeguarding both national security and regional stability.
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