Senator Twayen Rallies Nimbaians for Unity and Progress at UNICCO Convention

By: Anthony Q. Jiffan, Jr 

MONROVIA – In a stirring and unifying address to the Union of Nimbaians in the Americas (UNICCO) at their annual convention, Nimba County Senator Nya D. Twayen Jr. called on his fellow Nimbaians in the diaspora to strengthen ties with their homeland and play an active role in the county’s ongoing development and reconciliation efforts.

Speaking with warmth and conviction, Senator Twayen lauded the diverse cultural and tribal makeup of Nimba County, emphasizing unity as a cornerstone for progress.

“Today we gather here as Nimbaians from one Mountain but different districts, chiefdoms, clans, towns and villages for the sole purpose of building our common denominator—Nimba County,” he declared. “Whether you are Dan, Mahn, Mandingo, Krahn, Gbei or Kpelleh… we come together to celebrate the county we all love.”

Senator Twayen hailed the achievements of UNICCO since its founding in the 1970s, describing the organization as a vital bridge between the diaspora and Liberia. From scholarships and medical aid to infrastructure support and cultural preservation, he credited UNICCO for making a lasting impact in the lives of countless Nimbaians.

“Your actions have spoken louder than any slogan,” he said. “Your motto, ‘Slehwon For the sake of our native land,’ has been a living call to duty.”

The Senator also highlighted recent gains under President Joseph Boakai’s “Rescue Government,” pointing to the restoration of public service integrity, support for accountability institutions, infrastructure development, and economic revitalization across the county.

In particular, he spotlighted Ganta’s emergence as a commercial hub and Tappita’s growth as a healthcare center, noting, “Businesses are booming, homes are rising, and wealth creation is becoming a friendly competition—all because of the enabling environment and the industrious spirit of Nimbaians.”

On a pressing matter of national importance, Twayen issued a bold stance on the operations of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML). 

Speaking on behalf of the Nimba Legislative Caucus, he issued an ultimatum on the proposed renewal of AML’s concession agreement.

“We categorically oppose the renewal unless critical demands are met,” he stated, listing demands including the paving of the Sanniquellie-Yekepa road, completion of the J.W. Harley Hospital, consistent maintenance of roads, renovation of Yekepa housing, and local employment at decision-making levels.

He added, “These are not just conditions; they reflect the aspirations of our people. The days of eluding and deluding our people are over.”

Twayen used the occasion to advocate for reconciliation and healing in the wake of internal political tensions and the death of Senator Prince Y. Johnson, asserting that Nimba must reject division and embrace unity.

“We must walk together or we will surely fall apart,” he warned. “We are leading by example with a county administration that reflects tribal and regional balance.”

In a passionate appeal to the diaspora, he proposed a bold initiative: “Let the year 2030 be the ‘Year of Return and Homecoming for Nimba.’ Not just for a visit, but for reconnection and transformation.”

Twayen closed his remarks by encouraging UNICCO’s continued growth, participation, and engagement, and called on members to commit to building bridges that unite all Nimbaians globally.

He also extended congratulations to the newly crowned UNICCO Queen, urging her to use her platform for greater diaspora mobilization and cultural diplomacy.

In appreciation of the convention’s success, Senator Twayen praised UNICCO President Samuel Gee and the organizing team for their professionalism: “We have been treated like rock stars. For once, I thought I was attending an ECOWAS or AU Convention.”