New NaFAA Acting Director General, J. Cyrus Saygbe, Pledges to Tackle Challenges and Drive Growth”

Monrovia, Liberia: The newly appointed Acting Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), J. Cyrus Saygbe, expressed his commitment to professionalism, respect, and fostering a positive work environment.

"I am dedicated to transforming the challenges we face into opportunities for growth and success," Saygbe remarked.

Saygbe acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor and promised to build upon the successes achieved under her leadership, emphasizing that NaFAA stands at a pivotal juncture with the ongoing the ongoing Liberia Sustainable Management and Fisheries Project, supported by the World Bank, with an investment of approximately $21 million USD, which is set to conclude in September 2026. He noted that the project demonstrates the tremendous potential of the aquaculture sector to drive economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen food security in Liberia.

"This project has the potential to drive significant economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and improve food security in our country," Saygbe stated. "We are fully committed to ensuring its successful completion, and I have full confidence in the team working on this important initiative."

Despite the positive developments, Saygbe acknowledged that NaFAA continues to face several critical challenges. These include financial arrears amounting to USD 3.1 million, which include pending vendor payments, unremitted income tax withholdings, and complications related to the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) contributions dating back to 2023. "While we have made strides, we must also confront our financial challenges head-on," Saygbe noted. "I am committed to resolving these issues and ensuring that NaFAA is financially stable moving forward."

Saygbe also addressed concerns regarding unlawful staff dismissals and outstanding payments owed to the National Port Authority. "We will take swift action to address these outstanding issues," he assured. "No stone will be left unturned to ensure justice for our staff and to restore financial integrity to the institution."

Upon taking office, Saygbe reported that the administration inherited an unverified bank balance of approximately USD 450,000, urgently needed to cover staff salaries for March and April 2025. "This amount is critical to meeting our payroll obligations, and we have already initiated internal audits to verify these arrears," Saygbe explained. "Our goal is to address the outstanding liabilities and ensure that staff are paid on time."

In response to the institution’s financial challenges, Saygbe said his management team has already implemented several strategic measures to improve financial transparency. "We are working closely with the General Auditing Commission for rigorous oversight, and we are planning a comprehensive audit between May and June 2025," Saygbe said. "Additionally, we are engaging with the Civil Service Agency to optimize our human resources and resolve payroll discrepancies."

Saygbe is therefore urging all staff and stakeholders to "leave the past behind and focus on a brighter future for NaFAA." He stressed the importance of mutual respect and professional development as essential elements for NaFAA's continued success. "Together, we will overcome our challenges and build an institution that serves the people of Liberia with excellence," Saygbe said.