MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai delivered his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, January 27, 2025, before the 55th Legislature. Under the theme “Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda,” the President highlighted significant progress made during his first year in office and outlined ambitious plans to drive Liberia toward inclusive development.
Speaking before the joint session of the Legislature, President Boakai began by acknowledging Liberia’s resilience in the face of challenges. “Permit me to express profound thanks and heartfelt gratitude to the people of Liberia for their unwavering commitment to peace and stability,” he said. He praised Liberians for their unity and urged them to remain steadfast in building a better future.
The President emphasized the importance of Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution, which mandates the annual address. “We gather today to reflect on our stewardship and chart the way forward. Despite the challenges, our nation remains strong and resilient,” he declared, referencing the recent fire that damaged the Capitol Building as a symbol of Liberia’s enduring strength.
President Boakai recounted the achievements of his administration’s first year, which began with a 100-day plan aimed at addressing urgent national issues. “Even with limited resources, we made tangible progress in public sector accountability, infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, and other critical areas,” he said. He noted that despite ongoing challenges, Liberia is in a better place today than it was a year ago.
A major focus of the address was economic recovery. President Boakai inherited an economy in steep decline, characterized by rising unemployment, inflation, and a mounting debt burden of $2.5 billion. However, he announced that Liberia’s real GDP growth had rebounded to 5.1% in 2024, with inflation reduced to 7.7% and international reserves growing to $458.9 million.
“Our economy is stabilizing, and we are optimistic about 2025,” he said, projecting a growth rate of 5.8% for the year. He attributed these gains to strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, and partnerships with international organizations like the World Bank and USAID. “This progress demonstrates the resilience of the Liberian people and our commitment to inclusive development.”
The President commended the 55th Legislature for passing 11 key legislations and one joint resolution during the past year. Among these was the Act authorizing the government to spend $41.3 million in February 2024 to address urgent national needs. However, he urged lawmakers to act swiftly on pending bills, including the Presidential Transition Bill, the National Tourism Bill, and the Local Government Bill.
Boakai announced new legislative proposals, including the Liberia Youth Service Program (LYSEP) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Commission Act, aimed at empowering young people. “The youth are the backbone of our nation, and we must equip them with the skills necessary to drive national development,” he stated.
The President also highlighted efforts to improve governance through reforms of state-owned enterprises. The proposed establishment of the State-Owned Enterprises Authority of Liberia (SEAL) is intended to promote transparency and efficiency in public institutions. “These reforms are critical to ensuring accountability and fostering growth,” he said.
On domestic revenue mobilization, the President described 2024 as a record-breaking year, with total revenue collection reaching $734 million, including $695.3 million in domestic revenue. “This marks the highest domestic revenue collection in Liberia’s history,” he said, attributing the success to tax reforms such as the introduction of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) and investments in digital tax administration.
Boakai highlighted infrastructure as a cornerstone of his administration’s ARREST Agenda. He noted progress in road rehabilitation, the remittance of County Development Funds, and the allocation of resources to the Road Fund. “We are committed to reversing years of neglect and ensuring that counties receive the resources they need for local development,” he said.
Turning to Liberia’s aviation sector, the President announced improvements at Roberts International Airport, including the acquisition of fire trucks and backup generators. He also revealed ongoing discussions with Qatar Airways to establish an air service agreement, further connecting Liberia to global markets.
Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reducing the cost of living, citing reductions in rice and petroleum prices. “The price of essential commodities has declined, reflecting our focus on alleviating the hardships faced by ordinary Liberians,” he said.
The President lauded Liberia’s participation in the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility program, which he said has strengthened fiscal policy and improved financial governance. He also announced plans to transition Liberia to a cashless economy through the implementation of the National Electronic Payment Switch (NEPS).
Boakai’s address included a call for unity and collaboration among the three branches of government. “We must strengthen cooperation with transparency and mutual respect,” he said. “No one’s personal ambition should outweigh the importance of national peace and security.”
On governance, the President emphasized the importance of accountability, citing the establishment of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts (WECC) and the National Railway Authority. He also announced plans to modernize the insurance sector through an independent regulatory commission.
Boakai outlined plans to attract over $3 billion in investments through ongoing negotiations with multinational companies in energy, mining, and agriculture. “Liberia is a land of untapped opportunities, and we are actively showcasing our potential to investors,” he said.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, announcing plans to submit proposals aimed at improving the education system. He also emphasized the importance of technical and vocational training in addressing unemployment.
In closing, Boakai appealed to Liberians to remain united and optimistic about the future. “With your continued support, we will achieve the promise of a prosperous and inclusive Liberia,” he said. He urged those with reservations about his administration’s agenda to join the “rescue train” for the benefit of the nation.
