MONROVIA – The Liberia Maritime Authority has earned an unqualified audit opinion from the General Auditing Commission following the completion of its financial audit for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, a development widely viewed as a strong endorsement of the institution’s financial integrity and governance systems.
According to the audit report issued by Liberia’s Auditor General, P. Garswa Jackson, the financial statements of the Authority “present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Liberia Maritime Authority as at December 31, 2024, and its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.”
The General Auditing Commission further indicated that it obtained sufficient and appropriate audit evidence to support its conclusion, noting that the findings reflect the strength of the Liberia Maritime Authority’s internal controls and financial reporting systems.
An unqualified opinion represents the highest level of assurance an external auditor can provide, confirming that an institution’s financial statements are free from material misstatements and comply fully with accepted accounting standards. The outcome therefore places the Authority among public institutions with strong compliance records in financial reporting and accountability.
The Liberia Maritime Authority attributed the achievement to sustained reforms in financial management and governance under the leadership of its Commissioner/CEO, Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr, who described the result as a product of institutional discipline and staff commitment.
“This unqualified opinion is a strong testament to our commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management,” Cllr. Lighe said. He emphasized that the Authority will continue to uphold fiscal discipline while advancing reforms aimed at strengthening operational efficiency and aligning its systems with international best practices.
He further noted that ongoing improvements within the institution are intended to enhance compliance mechanisms, promote transparency, and reinforce public confidence in the management of Liberia’s maritime sector.
The audit success adds to a series of institutional gains recorded by the Authority in recent years, reflecting its continued efforts to modernize administrative and financial systems in line with national governance reforms.
The Liberia Maritime Authority remains a key public institution within Liberia’s maritime governance framework, and its latest audit outcome is expected to further consolidate its reputation for accountability and performance in the management of national maritime resources.