The Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) has taken a significant step toward strengthening the country’s border management with the launch of a specialized drone training program for its officers.
Speaking at the orientation ceremony, LIS Commissioner General Elijah F. Rufus described the initiative as a historic milestone in the ongoing efforts to modernize the institution and safeguard Liberia’s territorial integrity.
“Today we take an important step forward in the journey to modernize the Liberia Immigration Service,” Rufus told the officers. “This orientation is not just about preparing you for a training program; it is about preparing you to be pioneers in a new era of border security.
According to him, the introduction of drone technology into LIS operations reflects a firm determination to embrace innovation and deploy modern tools to protect Liberia’s borders more effectively.
Rufus emphasized that the officers selected for the training were chosen based on their potential, discipline, and dedication to service. Over the course of the program, participants will not only acquire technical knowledge but also develop the confidence and skills necessary to become leaders in the use of drones for surveillance and monitoring.
“At the end of this process, those who excel will advance to the practical stage, where hands-on mastery will determine how ready we are as an institution to deploy this technology in the field,” he said.
The Commissioner General further underscored that the training goes beyond individual growth, describing it as a national responsibility. He encouraged officers to remain focused, committed, and open-minded, noting that their success will directly contribute to the safety and security of the country.
“Let us step forward with courage, determination, and pride, knowing that the future of border security in Liberia begins with us. Together, we will make history, protect our nation, and prove that the Liberia Immigration Service is ready for the future,” Rufus observed.
The program marks the first large-scale introduction of drone technology within the LIS, signaling a broader vision to modernize Liberia’s border security infrastructure and restore public confidence in the agency’s ability to respond swiftly to evolving challenges.
