AFL Chief of Staff Assures Liberians ‘No War Coming’ Amid Reports of Tension at Liberian-Guinean Border and Cherif Dispute

Barclay Training Center, Monrovia – As part of efforts to reassure Liberians of peace, stability, and security amidst rumors of conflict near the Liberian-Guinean border, Brigadier General Davidson F. Forleh, Chief of Staff (COS) of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), has called for calm, emphasizing that “there is no war coming to Liberia.”

The COS made this statement following a three-day confirmatory aerial patrol (November 20-22) conducted alongside U.S. Ambassador Mark Toner. The patrol covered key border counties—Maryland, Grand Gedeh, Sinoe, and Lofa—and aimed to assess security conditions and foster U.S.-Liberia military cooperation.

The delegation included senior AFL officers, U.S. Embassy representatives, and the U.S. Defense Attaché. The patrol was facilitated by U.S. military aircraft, following the AFL’s request for support.

Objectives of the Aerial Patrol

The primary goals of the aerial patrol were strengthening border security and monitoring cross-border threats; engaging with local communities and leaders to build trust on security concerns and bolstering AFL and U.S. ties through international cooperation. It was also aimed at identifying infrastructure improvements to enhance security and economic growth and promoting peace and stability, emphasizing AFL and U.S. commitments.

Maryland County

In Harper, Maryland County, the delegation met with local authorities at the Administrative Building, where county officials briefed the team on local challenges. Visits were made to JJ Dossen Hospital, Tubman University, and the Cavalla River crossing point, with discussions on strengthening border security with Côte d’Ivoire.

The COS pledged to deploy Liberia Coast Guard personnel to the Harper Port Forward Operating Base to address piracy concerns in the Gulf of Guinea. He emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation and announced plans for the next Exercise Watch Over VIII in collaboration with Ivorian counterparts.

Grand Gedeh County

In Zwedru, the delegation was received by county officials and briefed on challenges, including issues at the correctional center such as insufficient vehicles, poor medical care, and inadequate fencing. The COS promised to escalate these concerns to higher authorities.

At Camp Whisner Military Barracks, the COS reviewed renovation efforts, met with troops and their families, and addressed the need for improved mobility for security forces.

Sinoe County

In Greenville, Sinoe County, the COS and team were welcomed by traditional leaders and local officials. They discussed security concerns and visited the Greenville Sea Port, emphasizing the need for Coast Guard deployment to combat maritime crimes.

Lofa County

In Voinjama, Lofa County, the COS reassured citizens that the increased military presence in the area was for routine patrols, dispelling rumors of impending conflict.

The team visited local institutions, including the hospital and Lofa Community College. At the hospital, officials highlighted challenges such as a lack of electricity, medical equipment, and staffing. The COS pledged to advocate for solutions.

At Lofa Community College, President Dr. Isaac P. Podah outlined challenges such as poor infrastructure and insufficient funding. The COS commended the administration’s efforts and encouraged youth to focus on education, saying, “Say no to drugs and take your studies seriously.”

The three-day aerial patrol reaffirmed Liberia’s partnership with the United States and highlighted critical challenges in border counties. Brig. Gen. Forleh assured citizens of continued efforts to strengthen security and called for greater interagency and international collaboration to promote peace and development across Liberia.

The Armed Forces of Liberia says it remains “A Force for Good”