SANNIQUELLIE, Nimba County – The Managing Director of Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA), Mr. B. Elias Shoniyin, has called on Nimbaians—and Liberians in general—to adopt a more constructive approach in engaging mining companies operating in their communities.
By D. Franklin Doloquee, Nimba
Speaking at a two-day stakeholder engagement session aimed at addressing conflicts within the ArcelorMittal Liberia concession area, Shoniyin appealed for peace and cooperation, noting that persistent violence has discouraged investors from coming to Liberia over the past seven years.
Addressing community leaders, youths, and other local stakeholders, Mr. Shoniyin stressed that peaceful collaboration between affected communities and mining companies such as ArcelorMittal Liberia is vital for sustainable development and attracting new investments.
“Violence and destructive behavior are counterproductive,” Shoniyin said. “They drive away investors and harm the country’s growth potential. We must set aside negative attitudes and work toward peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit.”
He noted that Liberia continues to fall behind neighboring countries, including Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone, which attract more investors due to their stable and peaceful environments. Since 2018, Liberia has seen a decline in major new investments, a situation he attributed largely to conflicts and unrest surrounding mining operations.
Mr. Shoniyin urged community leaders to play a central role in resolving disputes rather than escalating tensions.
“Leaders should be problem-solvers. When communities call on them, they must respond with dialogue and understanding—not by fanning conflict,” he said.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Impact in Nimba County
Shoniyin shared encouraging employment data, revealing that of the more than 5,000 Liberians employed by ArcelorMittal Liberia, roughly 30 percent are from Nimba County. This, he said, supports not only the workers but also their families and wider communities.
In Gbapa Town, one of the communities most affected by mining operations, resident Ma Betty K. Gono lauded the company’s efforts to strengthen community engagement. She noted that ongoing dialogue—facilitated by ADMA’s meetings with chiefs and community leaders—has helped increase local participation in the company’s activities.
“This collaboration is a step forward,” Gono said. “It brings the communities and the mining company together to work for the betterment of the county and the whole country.”
Nimba Education Guide Leads Peace-Building Efforts
The stakeholder engagement was organized by Nimba Education Guide, a local NGO dedicated to promoting education, social cohesion, and peacebuilding in Nimba County. Under the leadership of Executive Director Armstrong Gobac Selekpoh, the organization unites youth, women, traditional leaders, and representatives from all 19 administrative districts of the county.
Nimba Education Guide’s mission is to foster informed dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, particularly in sectors critical to economic development such as mining. Selekpoh said the strong turnout, featuring a diverse cross-section of community members, demonstrated a shared desire to move away from violence.
“Our goal is to replace conflict with cooperation so that ArcelorMittal Liberia and other companies can operate successfully and help build a prosperous future for Nimba County and Liberia at large,” he said.
A Call for Peaceful Engagement
Mr. Shoniyin concluded by underscoring the importance of peaceful engagement among community members, leaders, and investors. He said adopting this approach is key to unlocking Liberia’s potential to attract new investments, create jobs, and stimulate local economies.
“Peace is the foundation for progress,” he said. “By working together calmly and constructively, Liberians can rebuild trust, foster partnerships, and create a brighter, more prosperous future for all.”
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