President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has officially announced the establishment of the National Steering Committee for Liberia’s Bid for a Seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
According to an Executive Mansion release dated January 29, 2025, the strategic committee, composed of key government officials, civil society leaders, and diplomatic advisors, will lead and coordinate Liberia’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC. The National Steering Committee will be chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, with the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Internal Affairs serving as Co-Chairs.
Other members include, Minister of Justice, Minister of Defense, Minister of State, Director General of the Cabinet, National Security Advisor to the President, Minister of Gender, Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Minister of Youth and Sports, House Committee on Foreign Relations, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, National Civil Society Council of Liberia, Liberia Council of Churches, National Muslim Council, Federation of Liberian Youth, Liberia National Student Union, Mano River Union Youth Parliament, Liberia Chamber of Commerce and the Young Men Christian Association. The Liberian leader also appointed Ambassador Lewis Brown as Secretary to the Committee to oversee the implementation of Liberia’s campaign strategy.
According to the President, the advisory team will provide strategic guidance and leverage diplomatic expertise. Those appointed on the advisory team include, Ambassador George Wallace, Ambassador Marjon Kamara, Hon. Olubanke King Akerele, Senator Gbehzongar Findley, Senator Thomas Yayah Nimley, Hon. Monie R. Captan, Ambassador Togar G. McIntosh and Ambassador Nathaniel Barnes. Boakai explained that the establishment of the committee underscores Liberia’s commitment to global peace, security, and multilateral cooperation.
The President added that Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council aligns with its vision to contribute meaningfully to international decision-making on security and diplomatic matters.
He called on all stakeholders, both domestically and internationally, to support this historic bid, as Liberia seeks to elevate its role on the global stage and advocate for peace, development, and security worldwide. Meanwhile, Boakai has appointed a distinguished group of individuals as Ambassadors at Large to the Policy Advisory Council of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The President, during the appointments reflects his administration’s commitment to enhancing Liberia’s diplomatic engagements, strengthening international partnerships, and advancing the nation’s foreign policy objectives.
Those appointed as Ambassadors at Large to the Policy Advisory Council include, Hon. B. Elias Shoniyin – Chair, Ambassador Blamoh Nelson, Ambassador Ethel Davis, Hon. Chris Moore and Hon. Robert Lormia Members.
He also appointed Hon. Sheikh Moustapha Kouyateh as Ambassador at Large for Special Duties, working under the guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support the government’s strategic diplomatic initiatives.
The Liberian leader stated that the appointments showed his unwavering dedication to strengthening Liberia’s presence on the global stage and ensuring that the country’s foreign policy is effectively shaped by experienced and knowledgeable individuals.
He narrated that the newly appointed Ambassadors at Large bring a wealth of expertise in diplomacy, governance, and international relations, which will be instrumental in advancing Liberia’s national interests.
President Boakai said that his government remains committed to fostering robust international relations, promoting economic diplomacy, and engaging with global partners to enhance development opportunities for the Liberian people.
