The Commissioner General-designate of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), has appeared before the Senate Committee on Defense, Security, Intelligence and Veterans Affairs.
Lofa County Senator Momo T. Cyrus, chaired the committee.
The LIS Commissioner General-designate, Elijah Rufus, pledged to initiate sweeping reforms with the aim to modernize the agency into a transparent, intelligence-led institution.
With a deep sense of humility and gratitude, Mr. Rufus expressed appreciation to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for the his nomination.
Rufus outlined a transformative vision with focus on enhancing national security, promoting legal migration and aligning the agency with international best practices.
He emphasized the critical role of the LIS in safeguarding the country’s borders and supporting national development.
Rufus also announced plans to modernize border operations through advanced surveillance technologies, including biometric systems and closed-circuit television (CCTV) at major entry points under a zero-investment model established through a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Thailand-based company.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration with national security forces, including the Armed Forces of Liberia, and regional partners to combat illegal entry and cross-border crimes.
On infrastructural challenges, the nominee, currently serving as LIS Acting Commissioner General, announced plans to construct residential quarters for the officers nationwide.
He said discussions with county superintendents and the Liberia Land Authority have already yielded positive results for land allocation to support this initiative.
Rufus also noted ongoing intelligence efforts to track undocumented migrants in border counties like Bong, Nimba and Grand Gedeh, committing to work closely with local authorities to address this critical security concern.