Justin Samuel Gontorwon, President of the Nimba Youth Caucus, has announced a major youth gathering slated for Saturday, October 18, in Sanniquellie. The meeting is intended to consolidate the views of young people across Nimba County on the ongoing negotiations between the Government of Liberia and ArcelorMittal for the renewal of its 25-year Mineral Development Agreement (MDA). According to Gontorwon, the event is being organized in collaboration with key youth and student bodies, including the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY), the Liberia National Students Union (LINSU), and the Mano River Youth Parliament, with support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
He emphasized that while political leaders and stakeholders including members of the Nimba Legislative Caucus and Senator Nya Twayen have been actively advocating on behalf of the county, the youth must also have a unified voice in determining the future of the concession agreement. The assembly will be held at the Sanniquellie Youth Center and is expected to draw participants from all 19 administrative districts, including Ganta, Tappita, Bahn, Buu-Yao, and Twah River. Gontorwon clarified that the gathering is not a protest but a platform for constructive engagement with both ArcelorMittal and the government.
He stressed that while the company has provided employment opportunities for many young people in Nimba and across Liberia, it must also meet its full obligations to host communities. Reaffirming his commitment to transparency and accountability, Gontorwon dismissed any speculation about political compromise, stating that he remains dedicated to serving the youth without yielding to external influence. The resolutions from the meeting are expected to be formally presented to the Nimba Legislative Caucus as the county seeks to establish a clear and united position on the proposed MDA renewal.
Author: Uriah Suah
