A total of 193 officers graduated Friday, June 12, 2026, from the Liberia National Police Academy, marking a major boost to Liberia’s law enforcement capacity. Serving as a Keynote Speaker, Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s security institutions, as 193 officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) graduated Friday from the National Police Training Academy.
Minister Ngafuan praised the leadership of the security sector for what he described as the prudent use of government resources and visible improvements at the Police Academy.
“As I walked around and saw the transformation, I could only say thank you for using the resources we gave you wisely,” he dded recalling his previous visit to the academy several years ago while serving as Budget Director.
Minister Ngafuan acknowledged the growing demands on government finances and the intense competition among ministries and agencies for budgetary support but assured the security sector that President Joseph N. Boakai remains a strong advocate for law enforcement and national security. “When it comes to security, the President is the chief advocate. The challenge is not willingness; the challenge is the size of available resources,” Ngafuan told the gathering.
He said the government is working to expand revenue generation in order to increase support for critical sectors, including security, adding that a stronger national economy would allow for greater investment in police training, infrastructure and operational capacity.
Ngafuan also commended the collaboration between the Liberia National Police and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, describing inter-agency cooperation as critical to recent successes in combating narcotics trafficking and organized crime.
He pointed to recent anti-drug operations and major seizures as evidence of the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts. “The partnership between the police and the LDEA is producing results. Strong cooperation has contributed significantly to recent successful operations,” the Mimister said.
He used the occasion to issue a passionate appeal to the graduates to resist corruption and remain committed to public service despite the financial temptations that may arise during their careers.
“We can never pay you as much as drug dealers may offer, but your values must be stronger than any temptation. You should wear this uniform not just on your body, but in your character,” the Minister said. Describing the country’s drug crisis as a threat to Liberia’s future, Ngafuan characterized drug abuse as a tragedy that destroys families and robs young people of their potential.
“Every drug addict represents a mother in pain, a father in pain and a family in pain. Drug abuse is like watching an advance funeral because it slowly destroys a person’s future while they are still alive,” he said.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Attorney General and Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh challenged the graduates to uphold integrity and professionalism, emphasizing that justice begins long before cases reach the courtroom. “Justice begins with the police officer who responds professionally to a crime scene. Justice begins with the investigator who records facts accurately and without bias,” Tweh said.
He reminded the graduates that they are now part of Liberia’s broader justice system and that their conduct will directly influence public confidence in law enforcement institutions. “The uniform you wear must never become a symbol of fear. It must become a symbol of trust,” the Justice Minister declared.
Tweh warned against corruption, abuse of authority and political influence, urging the officers to remain faithful to the law and the oath they have taken. “There will be moments when your character is tested. No promotion, no favor and no personal benefit is worth compromising your integrity,” he said.
The graduation ceremony marked another milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Liberia’s security architecture through professional training, institutional reforms and improved operational readiness.
