By Jeremiah Gayflor
Nimba County is shifting away from costly, short-term spending on sports participation toward long-term investments, as part of a new fiscal strategy under the leadership of Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono.
For years, the county spent a significant portion of its annual budget on recurrent expenses tied to the National County Sports Meet. Much of this money went into temporary accommodation and transportation, especially when county teams advanced to the knockout stages in Monrovia. While necessary, those expenditures offered no lasting economic value.
That approach is now changing.
According to the Nimba County Administration, Superintendent Gono has introduced a sustainability-driven plan aimed at converting recurring sports costs into durable county-owned assets. Central to this plan is the construction of the Nimba Lodge in Careysburg, a permanent facility that will replace annual rental arrangements for lodging athletes and technical staff.
The lodge will provide secure and cost-effective accommodation, along with a conducive environment for team preparation, including a mini practice pitch.
By owning the facility, the county expects to significantly reduce future accommodation expenses while improving efficiency during national competitions.
Officials say the lodge is not limited to sports use. It is designed as a multi-purpose public asset that will host official Nimba County engagements in Montserrado County. It will also accommodate county elders during official functions, women and youth groups, and students participating in national academic activities such as debates and quiz competitions.
This broad use, authorities say, ensures maximum value for the investment.
Transportation — another major source of recurrent spending — has also been addressed. The County Council has approved the procurement of a new bus and the servicing of an existing one. This move is expected to reduce reliance on rented vehicles, improve cost predictability, and strengthen logistics for sports and other county programs.
County officials describe these initiatives as capital investments rather than routine expenditures, noting that they are expected to generate long-term savings, ease pressure on annual sports budgets, and improve overall financial efficiency.
Beyond cost savings, the administration believes the strategy will enhance athlete welfare and morale. Reliable transportation and proper accommodation are expected to improve safety, performance, and pride in representing Nimba County.
Observers say the reforms reflect a broader shift in public financial management — moving from repetitive consumption to asset creation, strengthening value for money, and positioning Nimba County for sustainable participation in sports and other development initiatives.
