By Edwin N. Khakie
GBARNGA, Bong County, June 30, 2026 – Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. has urged 424 newly graduated officers of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) to uphold integrity, professionalism, and patriotism as they assume responsibility for protecting Liberia’s borders.
Speaking Monday at the 8th graduation ceremony of the Liberia Immigration Service Regional Security Hub in Gbarnga, Senator Moye described the graduates as the nation’s frontline defenders of sovereignty and security.
“We gather here today not only to celebrate achievement, but to honor commitment,” Moye said. “Liberia is recognizing men and women who have completed rigorous training and now stand ready to serve as guardians of our borders, protectors of our sovereignty, and ambassadors of peace, security, and development.”
Addressing government officials, security chiefs, development partners, and relatives of the graduates, Moye said the ceremony marked not only the completion of training but also the beginning of a solemn national responsibility.
He emphasized that effective border management is essential to national security, lawful trade, investment, and public confidence in government institutions.
According to the senator, immigration officers are often the first representatives of Liberia encountered by visitors, making professionalism, fairness, and respect critical to projecting a positive image of the country.
“A courteous, professional officer sends a message that Liberia is a nation of order, respect, and opportunity,” he said, adding that positive first impressions can help attract investment, promote tourism, and strengthen Liberia’s international reputation.
Moye cautioned the new officers against corruption, abuse of authority, and discrimination, warning that unethical conduct at border posts undermines national security and erodes public trust.
“Corruption at the border is not a minor offense; it is a betrayal of the nation,” he said. “Discrimination against travelers is not a lapse in judgment; it is an erosion of peace.”
He urged the graduates to enforce immigration laws firmly while treating every traveler with dignity and respect, stressing that professionalism and compassion must go hand in hand.
The Bong County lawmaker also underscored the importance of collaboration among the Liberia Immigration Service, the Liberia National Police, the Armed Forces of Liberia, Customs authorities, and other security agencies in combating human trafficking, illegal migration, and other transnational crimes.
Moye encouraged the officers to uphold the discipline, ethical standards, crisis management skills, and cultural sensitivity acquired during their training, noting that their work, though often carried out away from public attention, is vital to Liberia’s peace, security, and development.
Congratulating the graduates, he urged them to wear their uniforms with humility and pride while serving as faithful defenders of Liberia’s sovereignty.
“The nation looks up to you. The future depends on you. And history will remember you,” Moye told the graduates.
