Liberia has officially emerged as the world’s leading maritime nation by ship registry, now accounting for a staggering 17% of the global fleet, according to the Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Neto Zarzar Lighe.
Speaking to an audience of Liberians in the diaspora during the Annual General Assembly of the European Federation of Liberian Associations (EFLA) and the commemoration of Liberia’s 178th Independence Day in Antwerp, Belgium, Commissioner Lighe described this milestone as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and strategic foresight of the Liberian people.
“With over 5,600 vessels now flying our flag, Liberia holds the world’s largest ship registry,” Lighe declared. “This is more than a number. It is a global recognition of Liberia’s leadership in maritime affairs and a critical pillar of our national economy.”
Commissioner Lighe traced the origins of Liberia’s maritime success to 1949, with the registration of the vessel World Peace, the first to sail under the Liberian flag. He explained that the open registry system, which offers competitive advantages and regulatory compliance with international standards, has since grown into one of the most respected in the world.
“From that single ship, we’ve built a global maritime powerhouse,” he said. “Today, our registry is not only the largest—it is also among the most compliant and reliable in the global shipping industry.”
Lighe emphasized that Liberia’s registry is backed by robust institutional management and compliance oversight, making it a trusted choice for shipowners worldwide.
While highlighting the registry’s significance, Lighe was quick to point out that LiMA’s work goes far beyond registration.
“At the Liberia Maritime Authority, we don’t just manage ship registrations. We are responsible for all maritime-related matters, including safety at sea, seafarer welfare, and protection of our marine environment under international law,” he stated.
The Commissioner stressed that Liberia’s maritime administration remains committed to upholding international standards, citing Liberia’s active participation in global regulatory frameworks such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Commissioner Lighe commended the Liberian diaspora for their contributions to the country’s development and urged them to seize opportunities in the maritime sector.
“You in the diaspora are Liberia’s ambassadors. Your unity, patriotism, and involvement are shaping the trajectory of our nation’s development,” he said. “This sector is an untapped economic goldmine. With the right investments, Liberians can lead the transformation of our maritime landscape.”
He encouraged skilled professionals abroad to consider partnerships and investments in maritime logistics, shipbuilding, training, and port infrastructure, noting that government is creating the policy space and technical framework to support such engagement.
Despite Liberia’s global maritime leadership, Commissioner Lighe acknowledged ongoing challenges in the sector, including limited surveillance capacity, outdated maritime legislation, and underdeveloped port infrastructure outside of Monrovia.
“These are not setbacks—they are opportunities in disguise,” he asserted. “We must not allow future opportunities to slip away. Let us be bold, innovative, and ready to act.”
One of the most notable updates provided by the Maritime Commissioner was the recent expansion of LiMA’s presence beyond Monrovia.
“For the first time, we now have full-time offices in Buchanan, Harper, and Greenville,” Lighe announced. “These offices are enhancing monitoring, inspection, and ship compliance in our coastal areas.”
He also celebrated a historic development: Liberia has begun domestic shipbuilding efforts to support short-sea shipping along the West African coast.
“This is a historic moment for us. For the first time since independence, Liberia is building its own vessels to boost regional maritime trade,” Lighe said, adding that this aligns with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s agenda to revive coastal economies and generate employment.
Lighe spoke proudly about the steady growth in enrollment at the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI), which continues to produce competent seafarers and maritime professionals.
He also announced the recent completion of a new student dormitory at the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana, describing it as “a promise fulfilled by President Boakai.”
“This investment in our youth is critical,” he said. “Our vision is to prepare the next generation of maritime leaders, technicians, and engineers who will not only serve Liberia but the global maritime community.”
As Liberia celebrates 178 years of independence, Lighe called on all Liberians—especially those abroad—to reflect on their roles in the nation’s continued growth.
“This Independence Day, let us reaffirm our faith in Liberia’s destiny,” he said. “Let us invest in the future, take pride in our accomplishments, and remain united in our pursuit of progress.”
He concluded his address with a patriotic charge: “Liberia’s fame shall remain green, and the gallantry of its people will never fade.”
