Liberia’s President and Chief Patron of Sports H.E Joseph N. Boakai has described the 2025 National County Sports Meet (NCSM) a medium of national healing, peace, and unity resonating throughout the country.
President Boakai made the statement on Sunday, January 12, 2025 in Grand Cape Mount County when he officially inaugurated the 2025 NCSM, the nation’s premier sporting event, under the theme “Inclusive Development through Sports.”
He said inclusivity is the cornerstone of nation-building and this year’s theme underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to reconciliation, unity and progress.
Boakai told Cape Mount citizens and sports lovers that the National County Sports Meet is more than a competition; “it is a celebration of our shared aspirations, a symbol of our resilience, and a testament to the transformative power of sports.”
He lauded the significant contributions of key stakeholders, including the National Legislature, traditional and community leaders, media practitioners, and event organizers, for their collaborative efforts in sustaining the County Meet as Liberia’s most cherished national event. Speaking to the athletes, the President extended a heartfelt message of encouragement, urging them to display discipline, patriotism and accountability.
“As you take to the playing fields, gymnasiums, and tracks, know that the nation celebrates you. Compete fiercely, but let your sportsmanship remind us all that this event is a force for unity rather than division,” he said.
The president said sports is a driver of national development. “It is no longer just a pastime; it is a vital enabler of social cohesion, youth empowerment, sustainable peace, and economic growth. It unites us in moments of triumph and teaches us the value of perseverance in moments of challenge.” The Liberian leader reminded all Liberians of the importance of fostering reconciliation, camaraderie, and national harmony.
The event reflects the spirit of patriotism and showcases the nation’s rich cultural and athletic heritage. Male soccer and female kickball matches, involving squads from the15 counties, feature highly in the annual competition.
By Prince Saah
