By Jeremiah Gayflor
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., will Friday, July 25, 2025, welcome at least three African heads of state and several high-profile dignitaries to Monrovia as Liberia marks its 178th Independence Day, according to a statement from the Executive Mansion.
The historic occasion, which commemorates Africa’s oldest republic, is expected to draw a distinguished lineup of guests from across the region and beyond. Their presence highlights Liberia’s continued role as a pillar of peace and cooperation in West Africa.
Among the confirmed visiting heads of state are:
H.E. Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló, President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone
H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, President of the Republic of Senegal
In addition to sitting presidents, a number of prominent former regional leaders and diplomats will attend, including:
Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, former ECOWAS Commission President and African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns
Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, former Executive Secretary of ECOWAS and former Speaker of the Sierra Leonean Parliament
H.E. Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, former ECOWAS Commission President and current Governor of the Central Bank of West African States
H.E. Lansana Kouyate, former Prime Minister of Guinea and former Executive Secretary of ECOWAS
President Boakai extended a warm welcome to the visiting leaders, stating that their presence reflects Liberia’s enduring diplomatic relationships and mutual aspirations for peace, development, and regional integration.
“This year’s Independence Day is not only a celebration of Liberia’s sovereignty, but also a reaffirmation of our shared values with sister nations in West Africa and the wider continent,” the President said.
The 178th Independence Day festivities will include a range of national events, such as an official ceremony, cultural exhibitions, and bilateral engagements between Liberia and visiting delegations.
Liberia declared its independence on July 26, 1847. This year’s celebrations come at a time when the country continues to play an active role in promoting democratic governance and regional stability.
