MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Commissioner General of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) ), Elijah F. Rufus, has delivered a stern warning to officers, urging them to uphold discipline, integrity and professionalism while rejecting all forms of corruption.
Addressing the recruits during their induction ceremony, Commissioner General Rufus emphasized that serving in the Liberia Immigration Service is a privilege rather than an entitlement.
He reminded the officers that countless young Liberians aspire to join the institution and encouraged them to approach their duties with humility, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.
He cautioned to officers against abusing their positions for personal gain, particularly through extortion or the harassment of foreign investors and businesspeople.
“If that is the mindset you are coming with—to extort and embarrass potential investors and businesspeople—you will not even spend six months,” the Commissioner General Rufus warned.
He further stated that officers dismissed for misconduct would be publicly identified, noting that such actions could significantly damage their future employment prospects.
The Commissioner General also dismissed the notion that political influence or personal connections could shield officers from disciplinary action, stressing that accountability would apply equally to everyone, regardless of status or affiliation.
Reflecting on his own career, he encouraged the recruits to embrace hard work, humility, and integrity.
He recalled beginning his journey in the service by performing basic administrative tasks, including typing letters and cleaning offices, before steadily rising through the ranks to participate in high-level national security discussions.
He assured the officers that those who demonstrate dedication, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to serving Liberia would receive the mentorship and opportunities needed to advance their careers.
Acknowledging the realities of the profession, the LIS boss noted that officers should expect assignments in remote parts of the country and understand that their starting salaries may not immediately meet their expectations.
However, he reminded them that every senior officer within the institution had faced similar challenges at the beginning of their careers. Concluding his remarks, Commissioner General Rufus encouraged the new officers to remain prayerful, committed and grounded in strong moral values, regardless of their religious backgrounds.
“Come with courage,” he said, congratulating the officers and welcoming them to the important responsibility of protecting Liberia’s borders.
