Monrovia – The Director-General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Dr. Christopher Nyan, has assured Liberians that under his leadership the country’s public health system will not be compromised for profit or political gain.
At the opening of the Emmet Dennis Scientific Conference at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Dr. Christopher Nyan, Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), delivered a powerful message concerning the integrity of Liberia’s public health system.
In remarks that drew significant attention, Dr. Nyan vowed that under his leadership, there would be no commercialization of health outbreaks in Liberia, reaffirming his commitment to the nation’s well-being.
Dr. Nyan’s statements come in the wake of controversial claims about the presence of Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF) pathogens in several southeastern counties, which were declared by the Ministry of Health.
Responding swiftly, the NPHIL distanced itself from the Ministry’s alarming announcement, asserting that rigorous tests showed no evidence of VHF pathogens among the specimens examined.
Dr. Nyan emphasized that the integrity of NPHIL would not be compromised for financial gain, stating, “We will not use our institute to monetize outbreaks and affect the health and life of our people.”
The event also featured prominent speakers including former Health Minister Dr. Bernice T. Dahn, who called for a non-politicized health sector. Dr. Dahn recounted the establishment of the University of Liberia’s School of Public Health, urging professionals to take advantage of recent advancements in public health education.
Dr. Dahn highlighted the importance of preparing for future outbreaks, advocating for strong collaboration among health institutions and resources in Liberia.
She expressed optimism about the country’s capabilities in providing quality training and fostering partnerships for health research.
House Health Committee Chair, Representative Sampson Weah, called for an end to the ongoing tensions between the NPHIL and the Ministry of Health.
He addressed historical issues that have contributed to conflict, emphasizing the need for unity among health organizations to bolster Liberia’s public health response.
Representatives Weah criticized recent disputes over VHF declarations as detrimental to the nation’s reputation, urging collective efforts to advance local research and resources.
The conference served as a platform for scientists and health professionals to unite and discuss pressing health issues.
With calls for cooperation and a strong emphasis on transparency, the gathering aimed to reinforce Liberia’s commitment to public health and ensure that the nation’s health initiatives are driven by science and community well-being rather than commercial interests.
The Emmet A. Dennis Scientific Conference brought together health experts, policymakers, and academics to discuss pressing health challenges. The gathering placed strong emphasis on transparency, scientific integrity, and unity as the guiding principles for Liberia’s future public health agenda.
