GBARNGA, Bong County — The Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) on Monday, June 29, 2026, graduated 424 officers from the eighth batch of its Specialized In-Service Training Program at its Regional Security Hub in Gbarnga, Bong County, with senior officials and lawmakers emphasizing professionalism, integrity, and national service.
The 14-day training brought together immigration officers from across the country to strengthen their skills in border management, ethics, crisis response, cultural sensitivity, and national security.
Formally accepting the graduates on behalf of the LIS administration, Deputy Director General for Administration Nelsco A. Wolo congratulated the officers for successfully completing the intensive training, describing the exercise as a reflection of their commitment to professional growth and excellence in service.
He said the knowledge and practical skills acquired during the program would enhance the officers’ ability to effectively respond to evolving border management and national security challenges.
“Our greatest asset is our personnel. This is why capacity building remains a priority of the Liberia Immigration Service,” Wolo stated, expressing confidence that the officers would return to their respective assignments better equipped to serve with competence, integrity, and professionalism.
He commended the LIS Training Command, facilitators, and development partners, particularly the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), for supporting the successful implementation of the training.
Wolo also praised Commissioner General Colonel Elijah F. Rufus for what he described as his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to transforming and modernizing the Liberia Immigration Service.
He urged the graduates to apply the knowledge gained during the training while remaining committed to protecting Liberia’s borders and upholding the values and mission of the institution.
Delivering the keynote address, Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. described immigration officers as critical actors in nation-building, peace-building, and safeguarding Liberia’s sovereignty.
Speaking on the theme, “The Significance of Immigration Officers in Nation Building as well as Sustaining Peace,” Senator Moye said immigration officers serve not merely as border guards but as ambassadors of Liberia who shape the country’s international image.
He noted that the first interaction many visitors have with Liberia is through immigration officers, making their conduct essential in promoting the nation’s reputation as a country of order, respect, and opportunity.
“Borders are more than lines on a map; they are symbols of sovereignty,” Moye told the graduates. “Every officer is an ambassador. A smile at the border can build goodwill, while a firm stance against crime can deter threats.”
The Bong County lawmaker stressed that effective immigration management is essential to sustaining peace, promoting lawful migration, facilitating trade and investment, combating human trafficking, and preventing transnational crimes.
He reminded the officers that peace depends not only on security measures but also on fairness, discipline, respect for human rights, and compassion toward travelers.
Senator Moye cautioned the graduates against corruption, discrimination, and abuse of authority, describing such acts as betrayals of public trust that undermine national security and development.
He encouraged the officers to exercise their authority with firmness and fairness while treating every traveler with dignity, noting that behind every passport lies a human story.
Acknowledging the challenges associated with immigration work, Moye said the profession demands courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication, adding that although immigration officers often work behind the scenes, their contributions remain vital to Liberia’s stability and development.
He concluded by urging the graduates to wear their uniforms with pride and humility and to uphold the highest standards of integrity throughout their careers.
The graduation ceremony brought together senior officials of the Liberia Immigration Service, government representatives, international partners, local authorities, religious leaders, members of the media, and families of the graduating officers. The newly trained officers are expected to be deployed across the country to strengthen border security and improve immigration services.
