The Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) has graduated 182 officers from Specialized In-Service Training under the theme, “LIS; Spirited and Rejuvenated to Serve,”
The ceremony took place over the weekend at the Regional Justice and Security Hub in Gbarnga City, Bong County central Liberia and attended by several dignitaries including the Ministry of Justice, Committees on National Security and Defense, Intelligence & Veteran Affairs at lower and upper house of Legislature, the National Joint Security that include, AFL, LNP, LDEA, LRA, Bong County Legislative Caucus, local government officials and foreign delegates from the Republic of Sierra Leone and its Ambassador in Liberia.
The colorful event celebrated the dedication, commitment, hard work and determination of LIS Batch #7 Specialized In-Service Training for two weeks with support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), UN Human Rights Office in Liberia and other partners.
Delivering the Keynote address, Alusine Kanneh, Chief Immigration Officer-CIO of the Republic of Sierra Leone emphasized the need for Liberia to promote regional integration and the promotion of the ECOWAS Brown Card.
He urged the graduates to utilize their training to create a safer community in their respective areas of assignment.
In special remarks, Liberia’s Immigration Service Commissioner General, Atty. Stephen J. H. Zargo highlighted the importance of empowering the country’s security sector through proper budgetary support.
Commissioner Zargo congratulated the graduates and emphasized the importance of their role in safeguarding the country’s borders including land, air and sea to enhance national security agenda.
He stressed the importance of the role of the graduates in contributing to the nation-building process through their effective provision of security services for Liberia. He maintained that the graduation ceremony marks a significant step forward for the Liberia Immigration Service and demonstrates their commitment to improving their capabilities and professionalism.
“With support from the UNDP and partners, the LIS continues to develop and strengthen its workforce to better serve the nation in its two core functions of security and revenue generation and also contribute to regional integration efforts.” the LIS boss emphasized.
According to him, their commitment to the security and safety of the community will undoubtedly contribute to a stronger and more secure Liberia.
“You have been trained and equipped to serve as the first line of defense for our country. Your duty is crucial and you must carry it out with professionalism and integrity,” Commissioner Zargo explained.
The LIS boss also highlighted the need for continuous training and improvement to keep up with evolving migration and security challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the National Joint Security, Christopher Peters, OIC of LDEA called on the graduates to adhere to discipline, loyalty, and dedication.
“You are now part of the Liberia Immigration Service family and you must uphold the values and standards of this institution,” he said.
In a special remark, the UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Anthony Ohemeng Bamah commended the graduates and urged them to remain dedicated to discharging their duties in the best interest of the state.
“Your training has equipped you with the necessary skills to effectively manage the flow of people in and out of Liberia. This is a critical responsibility that requires discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” Bamah averred.
The ceremony began with a parade by the graduates, showcasing some of their newly acquired skills and readiness for their duties.
The graduates will join other servicemen at various immigration posts to boost the National Security Agenda in keeping Liberia territory safe.
As the graduates embark on their new roles, they carry with them the knowledge and skills acquired during their specialized training.
