BY: Shallon S. Gonlor
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia – One of Liberia’s fastest-growing regions, Nimba County, continued experiencing significant expansion of infrastructure development, driven by both government initiatives and private investments. The second developed county in Liberia is noted for developing infrastructures spanning from improved road connectivity, modern facilities like judicial complex, military barracks, educational, and hospital.
While private investments, including the Jungle Water Group company investing millions of US dollars in Nimba County – the construction of a one-stop multipurpose infrastructure in Sanniquellie City to empower young people and boost economic growth. These developments aim to improve the quality of life for residents, promote economic growth, and increase access to essential services in the county.
In addition, the Liberia Football Association (LFA) and FIFA on Monday dedicated a state-of-the-art sports facility in Gompa City, Nimba County, marking a significant milestone in the county’s infrastructure development. The inaugurated Gompa Sports Pitch facility’s boasts FIFA-approved artificial turf, floodlights, an underground irrigation system, a secured inner fence, and a modern roofed spectator stand — providing athletes and fans with an international-standard environment.
The event was attended by government officials, House Speaker Richard Koon, Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, LFA President Mustapha Raji, Minister of Youth and Sports Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu, local and national sports officials, and citizens of Nimba County, respectively.
SUPERINTENDENT GONO’S REMARKS
In welcoming remarks, Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono welcomed the modern sports facility, stating, “Today, we are not just cutting a ribbon. We are opening a door—a door to dreams, to possibilities, to a future where talent is nurtured and greatness is born right here on home soil.” The superintendent further described the pitch, saying, “It is more than grass and goalposts, but a symbol of hope, of partnership, and of what we can achieve when vision meets commitment.”
The facility, she said stands as a testament to the powerful collaboration between the Liberia Football Association and the Government of Liberia, proving that development is a right that must reach every county, city, and child. On behalf of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr., and Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, — a proud son of Nimba, Superintendent Gono expressed gratitude to LFA’s President Mustapha I. Raji and the LFA leadership for their dedication to changing the story of Liberian football.
Superintendent Gono further extended gratitude to FIFA, saying, “We also extend our profound gratitude to FIFA for the trust, investment, and technical and financial support that made this world-class pitch a reality. This is how transformation begins: with belief, with investment, with shared purpose.” While celebrating this achievement, Superintendent Gono emphasized the need to look beyond this field, highlighting that Nimba is vast and its young people have immense talent.
She made a passionate appeal for further investment in pitches across cities like Tappita, Karnplay, Bahn, Saclepea, and beyond to make football and its opportunities accessible to every young boy and girl. Supt. Gono noted that even simple renovations can make a significant difference — mentioning the remarkable partnership in Sanniquellie between the private sector and football authorities, led by businessman Tomah Seh Floyd.
In her concluding welcoming remarks, Superintendent Gono said, “The real power of this pitch lies in the dreams it will ignite, the discipline it will teach, the unity it will inspire, and the champions it will produce. To the young people of Nimba: this is your stage. It is here that you will write your stories — not just of football, but of determination, teamwork, resilience, and success.” She concluded how the pitch dedication marks a proud moment for Ganta, Nimba, and Liberia — reminding leaders that when they believe in the people and invest in their potential, there is no limit to how far they can go.
LFA PRESIDENT MUSTAPHA RAJI’s Appeal:
During the dedicatory ceremony, the Liberia Football Association (LFA) President Mustapha Raji, issued a strong appeal to mining giant ArcelorMittal, urging the company to invest more meaningfully in community infrastructure and youth development. Raji praised the government and partners for their support in facilitating duty-free privileges for football development but lamented the minimal impact felt from concession companies operating in the county.
“ArcelorMittal continues to explore our resources, yet the people of Nimba — particularly the youth — have limited access to quality sports facilities,” Raji stated. He emphasized that while the company’s operations are legally sanctioned, its social corporate responsibilities must reflect in tangible benefits such as artificial pitches and development programs across Yekepa, Saclepea, Tappita, and other communities.
He called on national leadership, including the Speaker of the House, to engage concessionaires more rigorously, noting that Liberians often watch these companies sponsor major football clubs abroad while contributing little to local sports. “We want to celebrate football across every district in Nimba,” Raji said. “Our young boys and girls deserve opportunities and smiles on their faces.” The LFA President concluded by expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Government of Liberia for their continued support, reaffirming his commitment to growing football nationwide.
YOUTH AND SPORTS MINISTER
Minister of Youth and Sports Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu emphasized the importance of investing in sports infrastructure, particularly at the grassroots level. The refurbished Gompa Sports Pitch facility in Nimba County is a significant step in this direction, and the Minister believes it will have a positive impact on the community. Minister Bangalu noted that the refurbished pitch will not only enhance sports development in the area but also provide opportunities for young people to develop their talents. “This facility will be a hub for sports development in Nimba County, and we are confident that it will produce talented athletes who will make us proud,” he said.
He also highlighted the potential economic and social benefits of the facility. “The refurbished pitch will not only provide a safe space for young people to engage in sports but also stimulate economic activity in the area,” he said. “We believe that this facility will be a catalyst for development in Nimba County, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that promote the well-being of our youth.” The Minister urged the government to increase national budgetary support for sports development, particularly in the construction of sports facilities across Liberia. “We need to invest in sports infrastructure in every county, so that every child has access to quality facilities and opportunities to develop their talents,” he said. “We believe that this is essential for the development of our country, and we are committed to working with all stakeholders to make this a reality.”
The Minister’s call for increased support for sports development is part of a broader vision to promote youth development and empowerment. By investing in sports infrastructure and providing opportunities for young people to develop their talents, Liberia can build a brighter future for its citizens and promote national development. The Ministry’s call for increased national budgetary support, according to Minister Bangalu, is expected to be considered by the government and other stakeholders. If implemented, he said it could lead to the construction of more sports facilities across Liberia, providing opportunities for young people to develop their talents and promoting national development.
SPEAKER RICHARD KOON
House Speaker Richard Koon expressed appreciation for FIFA’s investment in local sports, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the Liberia Football Association’s development agenda. This development highlights the ongoing efforts to promote sports development in Liberia. Speaker Koon emphasized the Liberian government commitment to supporting sports development, particularly through partnerships with FIFA and the LFA. By investing in sports infrastructure and programs, House Speaker Koon said the government aims to promote youth development, empowerment, and national pride.
FIFA has been actively investing in football development globally, with a significant portion allocated to supporting member associations and confederations. For the 2023-2026 cycle, FIFA’s investment budget stands at $10,900 million, with $2,250 million dedicated to the FIFA Forward Programme. FIFA’s investment in local sports is expected to have a positive impact on Liberian football, providing opportunities for young players to develop their skills and compete at higher levels. The refurbished Gompa Sports Pitch facility in Nimba County is a testament to FIFA’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure in Liberia.
As FIFA continues to invest in football development globally, Liberia stands to benefit from these initiatives. With the government’s commitment to supporting sports development, the country can expect to see improvements in football infrastructure, talent development, and national competitiveness. The Gompa Sports Pitch project in Nimba County, Liberia, is a significant step towards transforming the country’s sports landscape. Launched in November 2024, the project features a FIFA-standard artificial turf, modern drainage and irrigation systems, powerful floodlights, and upgraded stands. This $750,000 investment, funded by the FIFA Forward program, aims to provide a reliable, all-weather football venue for Liberia’s national teams and community.
The Gompa Sports Pitch project is expected to have a positive impact on Liberian football, providing opportunities for young players to develop their skills and compete at higher levels. The project also aims to improve player development, inspire participation, and lay the groundwork for success –creating a stronger talent pipeline that can feed into national youth teams and eventually the senior national team.
