…As Pres. Boakai urges them to redeem the Nation’s future 

By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson I

President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has admonished rehabilitated at-risk youth who were on the verge of losing out on their potential future not to criminalize their rehabilitation and return to attitudes that led them to illicit drugs.

He stated that the nation may lose its resources but cannot afford to lose the future of the nation to illicit drugs.

Speaking at the graduation program of 126 At-Risk-Youth youths who graduated and received certificates from the Joint Inter-Sectorial At-Risk-Youth Empowerment Program, a program created by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their rehabilitation from illicit drugs, the Liberian leader extolled their willingness to restore their future and the nation at large.

The rehabilitation of the At-Risk-Youth took place in four counties including Montserrado, Margibi, Grand Bass, and Bomi Counties, and gained knowledge in different vocational skills.

At the program which took place on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, President Boakai said that a country could lose all of its resources, but there could be nothing compared to the loss of youths in a nation.

According to him, with the rehabilitation of over 126 at-risk youth, the nation has recorded success in its endeavor to reposition the country, especially the youths.

“We are here to meet and inspire our partnership with people who are ready to help us lift this country into a new noble platform,” President Boakai stated.

The Liberian leader explained that his government will enhance existing programs and create additional programs that will remove disadvantaged youths in drug addicts from the streets.

However, President Boakai narrated that his government will also rehabilitate refurbish, and provide medicines for mental health hospitals and clinics.

“My fellow graduates, I can’t adore my heart to you for your conscious decision to answer the path you are on in search of a change in life for good,” he said.

“I see you as seriously as at the time and circumstances. We salute your courage and celebrate the boldness of your positive thoughts. You did not only choose to escape from the shelter of induced addiction, but you took advantage of the opportunity to reclaim your future. Thank you for making the choice you have made. You deserve to be celebrated,” the President narrated.

He disclosed that the government of Liberia will partner with the rehabilitated youths in assessing greater opportunities that will make their lives meaningful and successful.

The Liberian leader also described the rehabilitated youths as the great men and women of Liberia in waiting.

According to President Boakai, by being rehabilitated, they have made the right choice which has given the government of Liberia and its partners the platform to help them get better; adding that it’s the right choice to reclaim their future for a better livelihood, professional skills and to seek for a job.

He explained that youths are the light-wire of any country and are most reliable for nation-building.

Meanwhile, the President has also declared the rehabilitated youths as paneer beneficiaries of Liberia on the Frontline patriots on the war against drug laws; indicating that by making the right choice, the rehabilitated youths are ambassadors of the rescue mission.

President Boakai disclosed that as ambassadors, the rehabilitated youths would be responsible for leading a tour of ghettos in and around Monrovia.

“Our tour is intended to reach out to your friends to strengthen them to build the coverage and follow your steps. I want to encourage them to join us in the new community that you have created today. Indeed, you have made up a community of reclaimed youths. Thank you for your leadership,” Boakai narrated.

He assured the United Nations and developing partners that Liberia will not be wasteful and unmindful of the resources, innovation, and sacrifices they have made; indicating that the government will remain responsible.

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *