February 20, 2025 – The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr. has congratulated Francis Zachariae on his reelection as Secretary-General of the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), now recognized as an intergovernmental organization (IGO).
Zachariae secured another term during IALA’s elections held on Thursday, February 20, where 23 Council members, including its Secretary-General, Francis Zachariae were elected. Representing Liberia—the world’s largest open ship registry—Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. commended Zachariae’s leadership and reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with IALA.
During discussions, Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. expressed Liberia’s desire to transition from an associate member to full membership within the organization. Secretary-General Zachariae outlined that achieving this status requires ratification of the IALA Convention by Liberia’s National Legislature before the instrument is formally deposited with the French government.
Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. pledged to lobby the Liberian Legislature to expedite the ratification process, ensuring the country secures full membership ahead of the next IALA General Assembly in 2027, which is set to take place in India. “We are going to lobby with the National Legislature to ensure the country’s quest for IALA full membership is ratified,” he said.
Additionally, Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. requested an IALA assessment mission to Liberia, citing the need for an updated review of the country’s maritime infrastructure since the last assessment in 2016. He emphasized that such a mission would help enhance Liberia’s domestic navigation safety programs.
The discussions took place on the sidelines of an official IALA meeting, where Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. also extended gratitude to the Singaporean Maritime and Port Authority for hosting delegates at a formal dinner.
Liberia’s full IALA membership would mark a significant milestone in its maritime sector, further reinforcing its position as a global leader in shipping regulation and safety.
