Liberia has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria for its historic role in restoring peace during its civil war, as well as its ongoing commitment to African unity and regional cooperation, during celebrations marking its 178th Independence Anniversary.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (OON), represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the national ceremony held in Monrovia. The event was attended by several African leaders, diplomats, and representatives of regional organisations.
Delivering President Tinubu’s goodwill message, Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Liberia, rooted in Pan-African solidarity, peace, and mutual development.
“On this momentous occasion, I convey warm greetings and felicitations from His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the people of Nigeria,” Ambassador Tuggar said. “President Tinubu reiterates Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to partnering with Liberia through the ECOWAS framework to promote peace, economic cooperation, and collective security that benefit all citizens of our respective nations.”
Reflecting on the close historical ties between both nations, Ambassador Tuggar praised Liberia’s resilience and democratic progress, describing the country as “a testament to African agency and determination.” He recalled Nigeria’s vital role in Liberia’s peace efforts under the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), saying:
“In Liberia’s darkest hours, when the drums of war drowned out the voices of reason, Nigeria answered the call of brotherhood. Under the banner of ECOWAS, our sons and daughters in uniform soldiers, doctors, and diplomat came not as conquerors but as kins. The ECOMOG mission was more than a peacekeeping operation; it was an act of love for a sister nation. Many of our finest never returned home, their lives given so that Liberia might live. Today, as we see the fruits of peace in our children in schools, farmers in fields, and entrepreneurs in markets, we honour their sacrifice.”
He added that the future challenges facing both nations—climate change, inequality, and global instability—could only be overcome through African unity and cooperation.
This year’s celebration, themed “One People, One Destiny: Healing the Past and Building the Future,” highlighted Liberia’s journey from conflict to reconciliation, and its efforts to build a united, prosperous future.
In recognition of Nigeria’s steadfast support, President Joseph Boakai of Liberia presented an official honour to Ambassador Tuggar on behalf of President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria a symbolic gesture of gratitude for Nigeria’s historic solidarity.
