MONROVIA, Liberia – September 1, 2026_ Weeks after President Joseph Nyuma Boakai described him as a “Gift to this nation” during the dedication of the EPA Headquarters, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has praised Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo for choosing to serve Liberia despite having the professional qualifications and experience to occupy high-level positions anywhere in the world.

Former President Sirleaf made the remarks Tuesday when she visited the EPA headquarters in Monrovia to see firsthand some of the work being carried out by the Agency.

During the visit, she held discussions with the EPA Senior Management Team and was taken on a guided tour of key technical facilities, including the Agency’s Geographic Information System (GIS) Laboratory and Environmental Laboratory.

The tour provided the former President an opportunity to observe some of the technical work being undertaken by the EPA to support environmental monitoring, data management, research and environmental decision-making in Liberia.

A major focus of her remarks was her recognition of Dr. Yarkpawolo’s leadership and decision to serve Liberia.

Reflecting on his professional background and accomplishments, the former President described his record as exceptional and said she was particularly impressed by his commitment to national service.

“What he has accomplished, as I look through his bio, is so exceptional,” Sirleaf said.

She emphasized that Dr. Yarkpawolo had opportunities to pursue high-level positions elsewhere but instead chose to dedicate his expertise to Liberia.

“He could be in any high-level position, anywhere in the world. He chose to serve this country. That’s a tremendous message to every Liberian,” she said.

According to Sirleaf, the decision demonstrates the importance of putting national service ahead of personal comfort, financial opportunities and other benefits that could be found elsewhere.

She further linked effective national development to integrity and responsible leadership, noting that the issue of “leadership with integrity” particularly resonated with her

She expressed appreciation for the work being done by the Agency and encouraged employees to remain committed to their responsibilities.

Former President Sirleaf also commended Dr. Yarkpawolo and EPA staff for their passion and determination.

“I am so proud of you. I am proud of you, Director. I am proud of each and every one of you,” she told the gathering.

She said the commitment demonstrated by the staff was evident in the way they spoke about their work and responsibilities.

Sirleaf encouraged the EPA team to remain strong, professional and dedicated, stressing that professionalism and excellence can create opportunities and earn respect.

“Continue to be strong. Continue to be a professional,” she urged the staff.

She also emphasized that national development cannot be achieved by one person or one institution alone.

“Not even a President can do it alone. A President will only succeed if the people do their part,” she said, urging citizens and public servants to carry out their responsibilities with integrity.

She said the EPA has continued to play an important role in Liberia despite changing national and global circumstances, noting that the institution now has an opportunity to do even more.

Sirleaf also spoke about the changing global development environment, stressing that countries can no longer depend entirely on external support and must increasingly develop their own national visions, mobilize their citizens and take responsibility for their development.

The former President further pledged her support to Dr. Yarkpawolo and the EPA, particularly in promoting the Agency’s work and helping to increase recognition of its contributions to Liberia.

She said that as she travels and interacts with people internationally, she would continue to serve as an ambassador for Liberia and speak about the work being undertaken by the EPA.

“I will be following him and his work. As I travel, my obligation is to continue to be an ambassador of Liberia, so I would be able to say to people what I know the EPA is doing,” she said.

Sirleaf also expressed her willingness to support efforts to help Dr. Yarkpawolo mobilize the resources needed to advance the EPA’s mandate.

“Anything I can do, I would give him the kind of support that he needs, the recognition that he needs, the ability for him to mobilize the resources that he needs for him to be able to do this work,” she added