By Stephanie M. Duncan
MONROVIA, LIBERIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called on Liberians to demonstrate patriotism by respecting the law, protecting national institutions, rejecting violence and placing the national interest above personal, ethnic, religious and partisan considerations.
President Boakai made the call Monday, August 24, 2026, during the commemoration of Liberia’s 179th National Flag Day Anniversary at the Executive Pavilion in Monrovia.
Speaking on the significance of the Lone Star, President Boakai said the national flag represents more than Liberia’s colors, describing it as a powerful expression of the country’s identity, history, struggles and aspirations.
He said the celebration, coming shortly after Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary, provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s past while recommitting themselves to building a better future.
“If Independence gave us the sovereignty to define ourselves as a nation, the flag gives that identity a visible, enduring symbol,” President Boakai said.
He recalled that Liberia’s flag was stitched in 1847 by seven women led by Susana Lewis, saying their contribution demonstrates that nation-building has never been the responsibility of a few people.
According to him, every Liberian, regardless of county, ethnicity, religion, age or social background, has a role to play in building the country.
President Boakai also challenged Liberians to take seriously the national pledge, describing it as a “national covenant” that establishes responsibilities citizens owe to Liberia and one another.
Addressing students, the President urged them not only to memorize the words of the pledge but to understand and practice its principles through respect for fellow citizens, obedience to the law, rejection of violence, protection of national symbols and hard work.
He specifically warned young people against drugs, citing what he described as renewed efforts by drug traffickers to use Liberia as a transit and operational center.
“I urge you to say NO to drugs,” President Boakai told students, warning them not to allow anyone to steal their future.
He called on parents, educators and other adults to also uphold the principles contained in the national pledge, arguing that citizens cannot demand patriotism and respect for the law from young people while adults undermine national institutions or place personal interests above the national good.
Meanwhile, President Boakai highlighted the reintroduction of civics education in Liberia’s primary schools and the official launch of standardized civics textbooks across the country.
He said the initiative is intended to strengthen young Liberians’ understanding of the country’s history, Constitution, national symbols, rights, responsibilities and the principles of citizenship.
The President also praised students who participated in the National Flag Day activities at the Barclay Training Center, where student contingents presented salutes.
He said he observed “discipline, precision, confidence, and patriotism” among the young participants and expressed pride in their performance.
President Boakai congratulated schools recognized for Best Salute, Most Disciplined and Best Dressed, attributing their achievements to the commitment of parents, instructors, school administrators and relevant government institutions.
The President further cautioned Liberians against treating national commemorations as mere ceremonial events, saying the national flag should inspire citizens to confront the challenges facing the country.
“Let us not confuse commemoration with complacency. Our flag calls us to action,” he said.
He urged Liberians to reject division, hatred, corruption and violence while working toward a country where roads connect communities, electricity reaches more people, healthcare improves, education is transformed and economic opportunities expand.
President Boakai stressed that the Lone Star belongs equally to every Liberian, whether a student in Grand Kru, a farmer in Lofa, a fisherman in Maryland, a worker in Monrovia or a Liberian living abroad.
He called for renewed national unity and a commitment to ensuring that all citizens are loved, respected and given opportunities to contribute to Liberia’s development.
As Liberia marked its 179th Flag Day, President Boakai urged citizens to honor the sacrifices of previous generations, act responsibly in the present and build a better country for generations to come.
He concluded his message with a call for citizens to embrace the national development agenda, urging Liberians to “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and together Build Liberia.”
“May God bless the Lone Star and bless Liberia,” President Boakai said.
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