IPNEWS: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. delivered a powerful and emotionally charged keynote address to hundreds of universities and college student leaders, urging them to embrace patriotism, discipline, accountability, and national unity as Liberia navigates a decisive moment in its democratic journey.
Speaking at the African Student Leadership Forum held at the Best Brains University Auditorium in Thinkers Village, the Liberian leader addressed an estimated 500 young leaders representing the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, AMEU, and community colleges across all 15 counties.
Boakai, who adjusted his travel schedule to attend the forum, said he came to speak “not as President, but as a father speaking to his children.”
In one of the most striking moments of his remarks, President Boakai reminded the audience that Liberia’s destiny is inseparable from that of its youth.
“We may travel the world but there is only one nation whose destiny is tied to our own. And that nation is Liberia,”
he said, drawing prolonged applause from the hall.
Urging the youth to rise above politics, tribalism, and short-term interests, the President said genuine patriotism is demonstrated in actions and not slogans.
“Patriotism is not something you say only when times are good. Patriotism is something you live,”
he emphasized.
Referencing Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, President Boakai warned against blindly celebrating corrupt leadership especially among the youth.
“Only in Africa will thieves be regrouping to loot again, and the youths whose future is being stolen will be celebrating it,”
he quoted, calling the scenario “deeply sad and destructive.”
He added that young people must use their voice responsibly:
“Use your voice to propose solutions, not create confusion. Critique with facts. Challenge leadership because you want Liberia to advance and not collapse”, he added.
The President stressed the long-term value of education in shaping Liberia’s next generation of leaders.
“Do not waste these years. You are building your mind and sharpening your character,”
he said.
Highlighting statistics from the Ministry of Education, Boakai noted that over 70% of Liberia’s population is under the age of 35, and that “the nation’s future stability and economic growth depend heavily on the discipline and preparedness of its youth.”
Boakai referenced Liberia’s National Anthem, underscoring the line “In union strong success is sure,” which he called “a truth, not poetry.”
“Liberia can only succeed when we stand together not county against county, tribe against tribe, young against old, or students against government,” he reechoed.
With youth unemployment estimated at 34–38% nationwide, Boakai told the students that unity, leadership, and innovation would be essential to driving development and creating jobs over the next decade.
Sharing personal reflections, President Boakai stressed that leadership must never be reduced to titles, positions, or popularity.
“Leadership is humility, Leadership is sacrifice, Leadership is putting the country first even when it is difficult or unpopular”, he added.
President Boakai encouraged students to begin shaping their character now if they hope to lead Liberia in the future.
The Liberian leader was also quick to expressed unwavering confidence in Liberia’s youth.
“My young people, I believe in you. I trust you. And I know that when the time comes, you will lead this country with integrity and love reemphasizing his signature tune to the young people of Liberia to Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia.”
