MONROVIA — The Minister of Youth and Sports, Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu, has described the preliminary and quarterfinal stages of the 2025/2026 National County Sports Meet as “excellent and successful,” citing enhanced security measures, strict adherence to the rule of law, and improvements in sports infrastructure as key contributors to the milestone achievement.
By: Christopher C.Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]
Speaking on the Super Morning Show on ELBC on Thursday, Minister Bangalu commended the coordinated efforts of national security forces, noting that their professionalism and visible presence at match venues nationwide have ensured order before, during, and after games, creating a safe environment for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.
The Minister highlighted the introduction of high-security feature tickets, which have effectively controlled access to playing venues and prevented overcrowding.
According to him, the innovation has significantly improved crowd management and enhanced the overall experience for fans.
Another development praised by the Minister is the successful hosting of night games after many years of absence.
This feat became possible due to the installation of new digital LED floodlights, a long-awaited advancement that he said represents a major step in modernizing Liberia’s sports infrastructure.
Minister Bangalu expressed gratitude to President Joseph N. Boakai for supporting the project, describing it as a “milestone achievement.”
“We are playing night games today because of the installation of the new digital LED floodlights,” Minister Bangalu said. “This is a milestone achievement, and we thank President Boakai for making this possible.”
The Minister also applauded the introduction of the round-robin format at the quarterfinal stage, marking the first time in many of the tournament that this system has been used.
According to him, the format promotes fairness, competitiveness, and provides counties with greater opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities.
Addressing criticism, Minister Bangalu cautioned against the spread of misinformation and irresponsible commentary, describing such acts as “strategic negativity” that could undermine national unity.
He urged critics to engage constructively, stressing that discipline, order, and respect for established rules are essential to the integrity of the competition.
The Minister further called on participants, county officials, team managers, supporters, and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the rules governing the National County Sports Meet.
He emphasized that collective compliance is key to sustaining peace, fairness, and continued progress in Liberian sports.
“The success of the National County Sports Meet belongs to all of us,” Minister Bangalu
