President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf returned to Monrovia Wednesday afternoon, following the observance of official programs marking the 163rd Independence Anniversary of Liberia.

Speaking in a radio interview shortly before leaving Sanniquellie, the President said this year’s celebrations in Nimba will go down in history as one of the best the country has held in recent years.

According to an Executive Mansion release, the President thanked officials of the county and the people of Nimba for successfully hosting the celebrations.  She also thanked all individuals and institutions that contributed towards the success of the occasion.

The Liberian leader said she remains hopeful that the peace and development Nimba County is enjoying will be sustained to ensure growth and national development.

Before departing Nimba, the President dedicated more development projects, including the premises of the newly renovated African Bible College University in Yekepa; a newly constructed prison compound, and a newly constructed Ministry of Gender and Development office in Sanniquellie.  The President also dedicated a local radio station in Ganta, Voice of Gompa, a project of Hon. Nohn  R. Kidau, Representative for District #4.

Accompanied by county officials, including Superintendent Edith Gongloe-Weh and the County’s Legislative Caucus, the President also visited Bahn, in Zoe-Geh District, where she was received by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and well-wishers.

While in Bahn, the Liberian leader dedicated an administrative building and performed symbolic dedications of other development projects in the District, including a Center for Concerned Women and a Youth Center. The President hoped the facilities would contribute to the manpower development and growth of women and youth of the area.

The President thanked residents of the area for embracing national development agenda and assured them that Government would continue to respond to their needs.