MINNESOTA, USA — The Nimba County Legislative Caucus is demanding paved roads, job opportunities for locals, improved healthcare and education facilities, and the renovation of company housing in Yekepa as prerequisites for continued cooperation with ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML).
Sen. Nya D. Twayen Jr., speaking on behalf of the caucus at the United Nimba Citizens’ Council (UNICCO) convention on Monday, said the people of Nimba deserve tangible benefits from the natural resources extracted from their land. He emphasized that the current state of roads, schools, clinics, and worker housing is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately by AML.
Among the priorities outlined were the urgent paving of the Sanniquellie to Yekepa road, completion of the long-stalled J.W. Harley Hospital, and consistent maintenance of both main and feeder roads within the company’s concession area. Twayen also pointed to dilapidated housing provided by the company in Yekepa, criticizing the use of shipping containers as substandard and undignified.
“We’ve informed AML’s CEO that if the company fails to renovate the housing units, the county administration will be forced to take over and rehabilitate them,” he said.
The senator also demanded that qualified Nimbaians be elevated into decision-making positions within AML, noting that fair employment opportunities were essential to building trust with the local population.
“These are not mere requests — they are demands that reflect the aspirations of our citizens,” Twayen said. “They must be met.”
While acknowledging AML’s historical presence in the county, Twayen warned that without meeting these key benchmarks, the caucus would not support the renewal of the company’s concession agreement.
“The Nimba Legislative Caucus will not back AML’s renewal unless our concerns are fully addressed,” he said.
Call for Unity
Twayen used his appearance at the diaspora gathering to urge reconciliation and unity among Nimbaians, warning that tribal, political, and personal divisions were undermining the county’s development.
“We are one people. We must walk together, or we will surely fall apart,” he said. “The passing of former Sen. Prince Y. Johnson is a major test for our unity.”
He praised the collaboration between the Nimba Legislative Caucus, Vice President Jeremiah Koung, and the County Administration, describing it as the backbone of a growing “One-Nimba Agenda.” He urged citizens both at home and abroad to support this unified vision.
“Let us reconcile. Let us forgive. Let us heal,” he said. “Nimba cannot reach her destiny unless all her children are on speaking terms — both at home and abroad.”
Twayen also highlighted tribal and regional inclusion within the county’s leadership structure, saying it reflects Nimba’s diversity and commitment to fair representation.
Inclusive Elections, Diaspora Involvement
Reflecting on his 2024 election victory, Twayen said voters had moved past tribal lines, signaling a more inclusive and progressive political culture. He pointed to the election of Sen. Samuel G. Kogar as further evidence of this shift.
“We still have work to do,” he said, “but we’re moving in the right direction.”
He urged Nimbians in the diaspora to contribute to the county’s development, not only through remittances but by returning with skills, capital, and a long-term vision.
“Come not just to build houses, but to build the future,” he said. “The door is open. The time is now.”
Endorsement of Boakai Administration
Twayen praised President Joseph Boakai’s “Rescue Government” for what he described as restored integrity, increased transparency, and renewed energy in public service.
“Without being political or simplistic, change has returned after years of dampened hopes, economic stress, and slowed progress,” he said.
He pointed to improved independence and functionality at oversight institutions such as the General Auditing Commission, Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission. He added that the routine suspension or dismissal of public officials involved in misconduct is a welcome change.
Twayen also cited visible improvements in infrastructure, especially in Ganta and Tappita, where roads, clinics, and business activity are on the rise.
Praise for UNICCO
Twayen closed his remarks by commending UNICCO for its role in connecting the Nimba diaspora to developments at home.
“Since its founding in the late 1970s, UNICCO has become an internationally respected organization, preserving our culture in the West and supporting local development,” he said.
His remarks, delivered to a receptive audience in Minnesota, signaled a sharpened stance by the caucus as national discussions over the AML concession continue.
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