Published: March 7, 2025
Monrovia – The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), the country’s frontline agency in disease prevention and control, is teetering on the brink of an administrative crisis as its top two officials have been recommended for suspension amid accusations of violating the NPHIL Act and misconduct.
The Board of Directors has recommended the suspension of Director General Dr. Dugbeh Chris Nyan for one month without pay over multiple violations of the NPHIL Act. At the same time, Deputy Director General for Administration Dr. Adams Lincoln remains indefinitely suspended amid an ongoing investigation into alleged vehicle theft.
The Board’s resolution, issued on February 4, 2025, accuses Dr. Nyan of bypassing governance protocols, making unilateral decisions on public health matters, and mishandling the institute’s budget and internal communications. The crisis has thrown NPHIL into uncertainty, raising fears about its ability to protect Liberia against disease outbreaks.
The Board, led by Chairman Dr. Stephen B. Kennedy, cited violations of Section 2.4(A)(xxiv), Section 4.3(b), (k), (o), Section 5.2, and Section 5.5 of the NPHIL Act, which govern the leadership’s responsibilities in financial management, emergency response coordination, and institutional oversight. According to the resolution, Dr. Nyan allegedly failed to properly coordinate with the Ministry of Health, bypassed Board authority in budget submissions, and failed to establish clear reporting structures within the institution.
The Board also reaffirmed the indefinite suspension of Dr. Adams Lincoln, who was previously removed by President Joseph Boakai over allegations of vehicle theft at NPHIL. The Board insists that the ongoing investigation into the matter must be closely monitored to ensure transparency and accountability. Additionally, Lincoln has been warned for unauthorized communication with external parties and the release of sensitive information without proper clearance.
The crisis at NPHIL comes at a time when the country remains vulnerable to Monkeypox (Mpox), Lassa Fever, and other infectious diseases. The institute played a pivotal role in containing Ebola and COVID-19 and now Mpox. Insiders warn that internal instability could weaken disease surveillance, disrupt international partnerships, and further dampen staff morale.
In an effort to restore order, the Board has recommended Dr. Thelma Nelson as Interim Director General and Mr. Mohammed Kiadii as Interim Deputy Director General for Administration. They are expected to work closely with the Ministry of Health and international partners to stabilize the agency’s operations.
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