IPNEWS: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has appointed the former Chief Justice of Liberia and former Maryland County Senator, Cllr. Gloria Musu-Scott, as the Acting Chairperson of the board of the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL). The appointment, announced on Thursday, is seen as a strategic move to strengthen governance and oversight at NOCAL, Liberia’s state-owned entity responsible for managing the country’s oil and gas resources.
A Veteran Public Servant
Cllr. Gloria Musu-Scott brings decades of legal, legislative, and public service experience to her new role. As a former Chief Justice, she played a pivotal role in shaping Liberia’s judiciary, and her tenure as Senator for Maryland County showcased her commitment to legislative reforms and national development.
Her appointment to lead NOCAL’s board comes at a critical time as the company seeks to navigate complex challenges in the energy sector while ensuring accountability and maximizing benefits for the Liberian people.
Government’s Vision for NOCAL
President Boakai’s administration has prioritized the reform and revitalization of NOCAL as part of its broader agenda to enhance transparency, attract investment, and unlock the potential of Liberia’s natural resources.
In his announcement, President Boakai expressed confidence in Cllr. Musu-Scott’s ability to provide the leadership and oversight required to achieve these objectives. “Cllr. Musu-Scott’s vast experience and unwavering commitment to public service make her the ideal choice to lead the NOCAL board during this transformative period,” he stated.
Challenges Ahead
NOCAL has faced significant challenges in recent years, including financial mismanagement and public skepticism about its operations. The company’s ability to regain public trust and attract investment will depend heavily on the leadership of its board and management team.
Analysts believe Cllr. Musu-Scott’s reputation for integrity and legal expertise will be critical in steering NOCAL toward greater transparency and efficiency.
Public Reaction
The appointment has been met with a mix of optimism and cautious anticipation. Many Liberians see it as a step in the right direction, given Cllr. Musu-Scott’s track record in public service.
“Her experience speaks for itself. I hope she brings the reforms we’ve been waiting for at NOCAL,” said James Kollie, a university lecturer in Monrovia.
Looking Ahead
As acting chairperson, Cllr. Musu-Scott is expected to spearhead efforts to strengthen NOCAL’s governance framework, attract foreign investment, and ensure that the benefits of Liberia’s oil and gas resources are equitably distributed.
Her leadership will be closely watched as Liberia continues its journey toward sustainable resource management and economic development.
In September 2024, former Chief Justice, Counselor Gloria Musu-Scott, was acquitted alongside other family members for murder.
The court overturned the guilty verdict handed by the high court Cllr. Musu-Scott and three other relatives (co-defendants) who were accused of murdering Charloe Musu, a niece to the ex-Chief Justice.
“WHEREFORE, AND IN VIEW OF THE FOREGOING, the final ruling of the trial court confirming the verdict of the jury is hereby reversed. The appellants, Gloria Musu-Scott, Ma Rebecca Youdeh Wisner, Gertrude Newton, and Alice Johnson, are ordered immediately released from further detention at the Monrovia Central Prison, and their civil rights, liberties, and all other constitutional and statutory rights are hereby immediately restored.
Meanwhile, Grand Cape Mount Women’s Network celebrated a significant milestone as they disbursed 1,425,000 LD to over 20 women’s groups.
The organization received the support from the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL).
This pivotal event took place at the Women’s Network office in Sinje Town, Garwula District in Grand Cape Mount County.
The grant was designed to empower women across the five administrative districts of Cape Mount County, enabling them to enhance their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
During the disbursement, NOCAL’s Vice President for Administration, Mr. Boakai Jaleiba, said, “This is not a loan to be paid back, but a means to help women improve their businesses and support their families.”
He said that this initiative is part of a broader effort by NOCAL, which is also providing support to women’s groups in other counties.
“We believe in the potential of women to drive economic growth and uplift their communities,” he said.
For her part, the program officer of the Grand Cape Mount Women’s Network expressed gratitude towards NOCAL for their timely support, highlighting its importance during the Christmas season.
Moore Musa Kiadii said, “This grant will help our women’s groups not only to grow their businesses but also to ensure that families have food on their tables during the holidays.”
Among the beneficiaries was Madam Patricia Sambola, head of the Women in Tears group.
She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the grant, thanking NOCAL and Mr. Jaleiba for their consideration of the women in Grand Cape Mount County.
“We will not easily forget this grant; it is a lifeline for us,” she stated.
Additionally, Madam Sambola acknowledged the support of Grand Cape Mount County’s female Senator, Dabah Varpilah, for recognizing the efforts of the women’s groups. “This recognition inspires us to work harder and make the most of this opportunity,” she added.
The disbursement of this grant marks a hopeful step towards empowering women in Grand Cape Mount County according to the Grand Cape Mount Women’s Network.
In an exclusive interview, the program officer, Madam Moore Musa Kiadii said that this will not only uplift women but also contribute positively to their families and communities in Western Liberia.
