President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, on Thursday, July 3, welcomed home the nation’s 2025 Hajj pilgrims. The welcoming ceremony was done at a special occasion, and thanksgiving prayer service held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Oldest Congo Town, outside Monrovia.
While addressing a gathering of “esteemed Imams, religious leaders, government officials, pilgrims, and members of the public,” Pres. Boakai praised the returning pilgrims for fulfilling one of the sacred duties of Islam; the fifth pillar of the Islamic faith through their successful completion of the Hajj in Mecca.
“Welcome home,” the President declared to the returned Muslims, adding: “You have completed one of the greatest spiritual journeys in Islam. Your presence here today is not just a confirmation of your individual devotion, but a source of pride for all of Liberia.”
Pres. Boakai used the occasion to highlight the importance of carrying the values and lessons of the pilgrimage, including humility, patience, unity, and sacrifice back into communities across the country.
He urged the returning pilgrims to serve as ambassadors of peace and national unity, encouraging them to use their spiritual experience to positively impact te country’s ongoing efforts toward healing, reconciliation, and inclusive development.
“In these times when our nation seeks healing, reconciliation, and renewal, I ask that you, our returning pilgrims, become ambassadors of peace. Be voices of wisdom in your communities. Stand against hate, division, and indifference,” he stated.
Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to religious freedom and inclusion, emphasizing that every Liberian, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or background, must feel respected and represented in national development efforts.
“I remain deeply committed to the freedom of religion, and to ensuring that every Liberian feels seen, respected, and included,” the President noted.
He further called on religious leaders to continue shaping the moral conscience of the nation and to stand with the government and civil society in confronting social ills and building a more just and compassionate society.
Pres. Boakai, meanwhile encouraged all Liberians to work together to create a nation where faith serves as a bridge for peace and progress.
“Let this gathering not just be ceremonial, but spiritual. Let it be the beginning of a national renewal, inspired by the values of Hajj: forgiveness, justice, solidarity, and submission to the will of Almighty God,” the President concluded.
The event marked a significant moment of interfaith solidarity and national reflection, as the country continues on its path of renewal and transformation.