–With Sierra Leone, Guinea
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
BO, Sierra Leone – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has reaffirmed the historic, cultural, and social ties connecting Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea. He declared that the countries’ shared borders should serve as “linking points” rather than barriers separating their people.
President Boakai made the remarks Sunday while serving as Guest of Honor at a special thanksgiving and honoring service marking the fifth anniversary of the Omega Fire Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant, Bo City, Sierra Leone.
The Liberian leader emphasized that the three neighboring countries share deep-rooted ethnic connections, common historical experiences, cultural values, languages, and socioeconomic priorities that continue to bind their populations together. He noted that the relationship among the countries extends beyond geographical boundaries, stressing the importance of preserving the cultural bonds and brotherhood that unite their people.
President Boakai’s remarks came during a gathering that brought together church delegates and choirs from Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone to celebrate the church’s five years of existence. A Baptist deacon himself, President Boakai expressed pleasure at participating in the anniversary celebration, which also recognized the church’s progress in establishing a place of worship.
Representing Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, Minister of Trade and Industry Alpha Ibrahim Sesay praised President Boakai for attending the religious gathering despite his demanding presidential responsibilities.
Minister Sesay, who also serves as Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sierra Leone, described the event as a reflection of the longstanding brotherhood between Liberia and Sierra Leone. He said the thanksgiving and honoring service provided an opportunity to acknowledge God’s blessings while celebrating the cordial relations between the two countries.
The minister expressed hope that Liberia and Sierra Leone would continue to strengthen their relationship through cooperation, friendship, and mutually beneficial engagements.
The religious programme featured a sermon by Pastor Eddie Monroe of Inspirational Global Ministries in the Bahamas. He delivered a message under the theme “The Power of the Spoken Word.”
Pastor Monroe emphasized that words can shape lives, influence behavior, encourage individuals, and empower people to overcome challenges. He urged worshippers to use their words positively, reminding them of the biblical principle that “life and death lie in the power of the tongue.” The pastor encouraged the congregation to promote hope, encouragement, and positive change through their daily interactions.
In his thanksgiving remarks, the host pastor, Rev. Dr. Fayia F. Barclay, praised President Boakai for his contributions to the Christian community and what he described as the Liberian leader’s humility toward fellow human beings. Rev. Barclay said the representation of Presidents Boakai and Bio at the ceremony reflected the unity and cordiality prevailing among countries in the region.
The anniversary celebration concluded with renewed emphasis on faith, regional solidarity, and the enduring historical and cultural connections among Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
