By Sylvester W. Korwor, LINA Bong County Correspondent
GBARNGA July 1, (LINA) – Bong County Senator Prince K. Moye has urged 424 newly trained officers of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) to be professional, disciplined and serve as ambassadors of peace who are prepared to defend the sovereignty of their country.
Speaking Monday, June 29, 2026 at the eighth graduation ceremony of LIS Officers in Gbarnga, Bong County, Senator Moye said, the first interaction of immigrants into Liberia begins with immigration officers who are the true reflections of the country’s character.
According to him, the graduation of over 420 LIS Officers was to honor commitment which he described as “a day of “triumph.” Moye added that the ceremony was more than just a formality, but a testament of revealing discipline, peace and nation building.
Speaking on the theme, “Significance of Immigration in Nation Building and Sustaining of Peace,” the Bong County Lawmaker maintained that nation building is a collective effort and that immigration officers are heads of the front line.
“Immigration is not merely about passport, visa, or checkpoint but the identity of the border, the way the country manages its borders on its value and mission for the people”, he stated.
Hon. Moye referred to the officers as “custodians of national stability”, from the way border entries are checked, adding that the first interaction of immigrants begins with immigration officers which sets the tone for boost or threat.
The Bong County Legislative Caucus Chair further noted that the weeks of training for the 424 immigration officers was an investment in discipline and professionalism.
“Every officer is an ambassador that reflects the nation’s character. They must work hand-in-hand with the police, custom officers, military and international partners; and together, the network of security can be achieved against external threats,” stressed.
Meanwhile, Senator Moye emphasized that the port of entries must be processed to create an environment where business can flourish and illegal goods be prevented from entry.
He noted that LIS Officers responsibility is about quality, where the recent training has further prepared them to also detect fraud, but also warned that discrimination against foreigners is an erosion and violation of peace. He wants them to exercise responsibility with fairness clearly stating that their works will not always be recognized but will always be essential.
He believes that when the officers welcome lawful travelers, they open doors for opportunities, though on the other hand, they will also face temptation during the execution of their national duty.
Senator Moye said, professionally trained officers are not only defenders of peace, but also messengers of peace, saying, “May your service be marked by integrity, courage and dedication”, as the nation looks up to them while the future also depends on them.
For her part Bong County Superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris speaking in brief remarks at the graduation branded the officers as “ambassadors” and not just gatekeepers of the state.
Superintendent Norris further wants the officers to serve their country with their hearts where society will praise and remember them, but on the contrary, they will be booked for any illegal transactions. “God chose you to serve your country”, she stated.