-Suspended NAFAA DG Glassco Questions , as Pres. Boakai Appoints Acting Director General
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia, Liberia – A month after her suspension by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Madam Emma Metieh-Glassco, the suspended Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFAA), describes her suspension as a “political conspiracy” and a “complete disservice” to her contributions to Liberia.
In a Facebook post on Friday, March 14, 2025, Madam Glassco expressed her frustration over the lack of an investigation into the allegations against her, despite her willingness to cooperate. She wrote, “Political Conspiracy! Complete disservice, for my contribution to my country Liberia… Malign my Character without proof.. No Investigation.. So I am Dismissed without a Cause..” She ended her post with the hashtag “#Justice4Emma.” Meanwhile, President Joseph Nyuma Boakak on the same day appointed Mr. J. Cyrus Saygbe, Sr. as Acting Director General of the NATIONAL FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE AUTHORITY (NaFAA).
President Boakai suspended Madam Glassco on February 13, 2025, following a resolution by the NAFAA Board of Directors. The suspension, based on Section 3.9.2 of the Act establishing NAFAA, cited managerial and financial inefficiencies. Additionally, the President referenced a communication from the Office of the Ombudsman, which recommended her suspension and investigation over allegations of “insulting behavior” during an official investigation meeting. This conduct deemed unbecoming of a public official, falls under Section 11.10 of the Code of Conduct Act.
In his communication to Madam Glassco, President Boakai urged her to fully cooperate with the investigations to address the concerns raised. However, since her suspension, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has yet to initiate an investigation into her tenure at NAFAA, raising questions about the transparency and fairness of the process.
Madam Glassco’s suspension has flared concerns among many, with some, including famous Liberian talk show host Clarence Jackson questioning the lack of due process in her case. Other analysts and critics argue that the absence of an investigation by the LACC undermines the credibility of the allegations against her.
Glassco Reflects on Achievements and Bids Farewell
In a statement Sunday, Madam Emma Glassco, the suspended Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) of Liberia, expressed gratitude to the institution and its staff as it transitions to new leadership. Glassco highlighted the significant achievements made under her seven-year tenure, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that led to unprecedented progress in Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Glassco’s statement outlined a series of remarkable accomplishments during her time at NaFAA. These include securing $40 million from the World Bank and $20 million from OPEC International Funds, as well as implementing a $3.1 million Icelandic project to establish a microbiology laboratory. Additionally, she oversaw the execution of a $3.5 million FAO project and a $12 million EU project inherited from the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf administration.
Under her leadership, NaFAA signed multiple multilateral agreements and seven bilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), including a bilateral partnership agreement between Liberia and Senegal. Glassco also played a pivotal role in ratifying key international fisheries instruments, such as the Port State Measures Agreement, and updating Liberia’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Management and Development Law (2019).
Glassco highlighted several transformative initiatives, including the commissioning of an independent fisheries research and stock assessment to evaluate the commercial viability of Liberia’s territorial waters—a first since 1982. She also spearheaded livelihood programs for local fishermen, such as the Net Exchange Program, Outboard Engines Program, and Life Jackets Safety Program. Notably, a $2 million microloan program was recently launched to support women in fisheries and fishmongers.
Other achievements include the arrival of new fiberglass engine boats to enhance local fish production, the construction of processing and storage facilities for women in fisheries, and the establishment of a Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences Bachelor’s program at the University of Liberia. Glassco also oversaw the construction of a fisheries dormitory and administrative building at the university, as well as the development of a new NaFAA headquarters.
One of the standout accomplishments of Glassco’s tenure was securing a $60 million loan to build the Mesurado Fishing Pier and Fishing Industrial Port, along with landing and processing facilities in five counties. She expressed confidence that the project would be implemented as planned, further boosting Liberia’s fisheries sector.
Glassco acknowledged that her departure was marked by mixed feelings, as political developments interrupted her plans for a proper farewell. She reflected on her imperfections as a leader but expressed pride in the collective achievements of her team. “We put in our best,” she said, adding, “I love you all, both those that love me and those that despise me.”
In her closing remarks, Glassco urged NaFAA staff to support the new leadership to sustain the gains made over the years. She also indicated her intention to seek redress to clear her name, stating, “Please support your new boss in the interest of Liberia while I seek redress on clearing my character.”
Glassco extended her gratitude to Liberia for the opportunity to serve and thanked former President George M. Weah for appointing her to the role. She also expressed appreciation to the current government for the chance to contribute to the nation’s development.
Madam Emma Glassco’s tenure at NaFAA will be remembered for its transformative impact on Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. Her legacy of securing international funding, fostering partnerships, and implementing groundbreaking programs has set a high standard for future leadership. As she steps aside, her call for unity and continued progress resonates as a reminder of the importance of collective effort in nation-building.
