PHOTO: Min. of State designate, Samuel A. Stevquoah
Frank Sainworla, Jr. writes: For almost the entire span of Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s twelve years as Vice President under former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Samuel A. Stevquoah served as his Chief of Office Staff.
Today, President of Liberia, Stevquoah has until now served as Boakai’s Minister of State for special services, a position from which the Liberian leader has now elevated him to become his Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, replacing a long-time confidante, the late Minister Syvester Grigsby who died and was buried in the United States recently.
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the Executive Mansion announced in a press release the nomination of Mr. Stevquah for Senate confirmation to becoming the new Minister of State.
“It is my firm expectation that you will discharge the duties of this high office with dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the Republic. The role you are assuming is central to the coordination of the affairs of the Presidency and I am confident that you will bring to it the integrity, judgment, and commitment required,” President Boakai said in his official letter to the Minister of State designate.
Besides his sojourn in government’s political bureaucracy, the Minister of State designate used to be a practicing Liberian Journalist for many years.
Prior to joining the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) as one of the producers and news anchor of the famous ELTV Action News, Mr. Stevquoah worked with Radio ELWA in its news department in the 1980s.
BELOW FULL TEXT OF THE EXECUTIVE MANSION PRESS RELEASE ANNOUNCING HIS APPOINTMENT AS MINISTER OF STATE;
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
President Boakai Announces Nomination of New Minister of State for Presidential Affairs
September 7, 2025
Executive Mansion, Monrovia – Following the demise of Honorable Syvester M. Grigsby, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has nominated Honorable Samuel A. Stevquoah to serve as Minister of State for Presidential Affairs.
This critical appointment highlights the President’s commitment to ensuring dynamic, effective, and principled leadership at the highest levels of government.
The nomination, which is subject to confirmation by the Honorable Liberian Senate, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, ensure continuity and promote a culture of service, accountability, and national unity.
Pending the conclusion of the Senate’s constitutional recess, Hon. Stevquoah has been authorized to act in this capacity, ensuring continuity and stability in the management of presidential affairs.
The Minister of State for Presidential Affairs is a central figure in the executive branch, acting as the primary coordinator of the President’s agenda, overseeing the effective administration of the Office of the President, and serving as a vital link between the Presidency and other arms of government. The role demands dedication, professionalism, sound judgment, and unwavering loyalty to the Republic of Liberia.
As the main steward of the Presidential Office, the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs is charged with:
- Coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Presidency
- Advising the President on matters of national importance and policy
implementation
- Ensuring seamless communication between the Office of the President and other
ministries and agencies
- Overseeing the preparation and execution of presidential engagements, both
national and international
- Fostering a culture of integrity, efficiency, and public service within the executive
branch
- Representing the President in key intergovernmental and diplomatic forums as
designated.
In the official communication addressed to Honorable Stevquoah, President Boakai
expressed strong confidence in the nominee’s ability to uphold the values and fulfill the duties of the office with distinction.
The President emphasized the importance of integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the Republic stating: “It is my firm expectation that you will discharge the duties of this high office with dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the Republic. The role you are assuming is central to the coordination of the affairs of the Presidency and I am confident that you will bring to it the integrity, judgment, and commitment required.”
President Boakai extended his congratulations to Hon. Stevquoah and wished him every success as he embarks on this significant responsibility in service to the nation.
Honorable Samuel A. Stevquoah brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished record of public service to his new role.
With a background in administration and public policy, he has served in various capacities within government and the private sector, earning a reputation for his integrity, strategic thinking, and dedication to national development.
He also served as Chief of Office Staff for the entire twelve years of the incumbency of then Vice President of the Republic of Liberia Honorable Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.
Throughout his career, Mr. Stevquoah has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing good governance, championing the rule of law, and promoting inclusive participation in the democratic process. His leadership qualities and collaborative approach position him to effectively coordinate the multifaceted activities of the
Presidency.
Signed:
Atty. Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana
Presidential Press Secretary