MONROVIA, Liberia — Weeks after President Joseph Nyuma Boakai hailed him as a “Gift to this nation” during the dedication of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Headquarters, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has praised EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo for choosing to serve Liberia despite possessing the qualifications to hold top-tier international positions.
The former Liberian leader made the remarks during a visit to the EPA headquarters in Monrovia to observe the agency’s ongoing operations. While on-site, Sirleaf held discussions with the EPA Senior Management Team and toured key technical facilities, including the Geographic Information System (GIS) Laboratory and Environmental Laboratory, which support environmental monitoring, data management, research, and policy decision-making across Liberia.
Reflecting on Dr. Yarkpawolo’s academic and professional accomplishments, Sirleaf praised his decision to prioritize national development over global personal advancement.
“What he has accomplished, as I look through his bio, is so exceptional,” Sirleaf stated. “He could be in any high-level position, anywhere in the world. He chose to serve this country. That’s a tremendous message to every Liberian.”
She emphasized that putting national service ahead of personal comfort and financial gain is essential for the country’s progress, directly linking effective national development to integrity and responsible leadership. Expressing pride in both the director and the EPA staff, she urged the team to remain resilient, professional, and dedicated to their mandate.
Sirleaf also underscored that national progress requires collective effort rather than reliance on a single leader or institution. “Not even a President can do it alone. A President will only succeed if the people do their part,” she noted, calling on citizens and civil servants alike to carry out their duties with high standards of integrity.
Addressing the evolving global landscape, the former President highlighted that developing nations must increasingly rely on self-mobilization, strong national visions, and internal responsibility rather than sole dependence on external aid.
Concluding her visit, Sirleaf pledged her full backing to Dr. Yarkpawolo and the EPA. She committed to acting as an international ambassador for the agency’s work during her global engagements and offered to assist in mobilizing the resources necessary for the EPA to execute its mandate fully.
Visited 1 times, 1 visit(s) today
