Monrovia – The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defense, Security, Intelligence and Veteran Affairs, Senator Momo Cyrus, has challenged the newly graduated Class I officers of the Liberia National Fire Service and the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) to uphold what he called “the sacred trust of protecting life, hope, and the future of Liberia.”
Serving as keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony held at the Police Academy in Paynesville, Senator Cyrus told the 126 graduates that their uniform represents courage, not just a job.
Speaking on the theme “When Others Step Back, You Step Forward: The Sacred Trust of Protecting Life, Hope, and the Future of Liberia,” Senator Cyrus urged them to become the reason someone lives to see tomorrow.
The Lofa County Senator said the officers have been trained not only to fight fires, but to defend human dignity. He outlined their broader responsibilities to include rescuing accident victims on highways, responding to floods, conducting search-and-rescue operations, and handling industrial emergencies.
He emphasized that prevention is more important than reaction, stating, – “The strongest firefighter is not the one who enters the most fires, but the one who prevents the most tragedies.”
He added that with climate-related disasters becoming more frequent, Liberia needs strong institutions that protect life.
The Senator warned the graduates that professionalism is practiced daily, not just worn. He cautioned them never to abuse their authority, accept bribes, or seek personal gain from a victim.
“Uniforms do not create heroes — character does. Training prepares your hands. Values prepare your heart,” he said.
He stressed that in moments of crisis, the public will remember a firefighter’s response, not their rank, and that one decision can determine whether a family remains whole.
Senator Cyrus praised the women in the graduating class, saying their presence strengthens the institution, adding “leadership knows no gender.”
He also thanked families for their sacrifice and the leadership of the Liberia National Fire Service for building public trust.
Citing examples from Japan, Singapore, the United States, the UK, Rwanda and South Africa, the Senator said professional fire services are not a luxury but an investment in national development. He called for continuous training and high standards to match global best practices.
The Senate Defense Committee Chairman charged the graduates to remain vigilant, learn continuously, and serve with humility and integrity.
“So when others step back, step forward. When others panic, bring calm. When others lose hope, become hope,” he said.
The program was attended by scores of government officials including Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh, LPRC Deputy Managing Director for Administration Jacob Smith, and Liberia National Fire Service Director Col. Warsuwah Barvoul, among others.
In remarks, Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh admonished the graduates to remain disciplined and professional in the discharge of their duties. He reminded the officers of the critical role they play in safeguarding lives and property.
The Justice Minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening the fire service and promoting human capital development across the sector.
Also speaking, LPRC Deputy Managing Director for Administration Jacob Smith urged the graduates to serve all Liberians equally regardless of political affiliation. Mr. Smith said the officers should not function as regime security but as protectors of the entire population.
“The true purpose of a fire and emergency service is to protect lives and property for every citizen, no matter their status or political affiliation. Public trust in the institution depends on neutrality and commitment to service above politics,” Smith said.
He reminded the officers that prevention, public education, and quick response are key to saving lives and reducing damage to homes and businesses.
A total of 126 officers graduated with professional certificates — 79 from the Liberia National Fire Service and 47 from the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company.
