The LFA 2025 Ordinary Congress held on April 12, 2025, marked a turning point for football in Liberia. Held in Monrovia, this 29th assembly of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) delivered institutional upgrades, creative ideas, and comprehensive reforms that indicate a bold new chapter for the sport.

The congress reflected a spirit of growth from budget approvals to the establishment of a national football academy and the incorporation of grassroots development initiatives. Here’s a full breakdown of what transpired and why it matters.

Budget Approval: A $5.7M Investment in the Game

Vote Breakdown and Fiscal Strategy

A total of 28 delegates endorsed the US$5.7 million budget for the 2025–2026 fiscal year in a closely contested vote; 12 opposed it. Although the sum in question may appear small in relation to world football economies, it is a historic financial dedication to football in Liberia.

Support from the Government of Liberia

LFA President Mustapha Raji acknowledged the backing of the national government as a key component of this funding structure. The budget is designed to:

• Fund national teams at all levels

• Enhance grassroots football programs

• Support administrative operations

• Provide resources for women’s football development

• Expand regional and international partnerships

Launching the Henry Nyumah Brown Football Academy

A Tribute to a Legend

One of the most emotional moments of the LFA 2025 Ordinary Congress was the announcement of the Henry Nyumah Brown Football Academy. Named after the late former Technical Director, this new institution is designed to centralize elite youth training and serve as a revenue-generating platform for Liberian clubs.

More Than Just a Facility

The academy will:

• Train talented players aged 12–18

• Host tournaments and coaching clinics

• Collaborate with clubs to scout and recruit prospects

• Generate income through matchday activities and rentals

Talent Development Scheme (TDS) Expands Nationwide

Scouting Across Six Counties

Through the Talent Development Scheme, the LFA has already scouted over 3,000 players from six counties. This grassroots push aims to discover raw talent in areas historically neglected by mainstream scouting efforts.

George Weah Technical Center Takes the Lead

Twenty-two of these players are set to begin full-time training at the George Weah Technical Center. Named after Liberia’s most iconic footballer and only Ballon d’Or winner, the facility plays a symbolic and practical role in shaping the country’s future stars.

Long-Term Vision

The TDS also integrates:

• Education support

• Character and leadership training

• Mentorship programs

• Regional performance monitoring

Grassroots Football: Building from the Bottom Up

Boys and Girls Youth Leagues

In a major shift from past LFA strategies, the congress formalized the launch of youth leagues for boys and girls starting at age 8. This early intervention model is designed to build technical skills, sportsmanship, and love for the game from the ground up.

Community-Based Competitions

The newly sanctioned youth leagues will:

• Operate in all 15 counties

• Be managed through local football councils

• Feed into regional talent pipelines

Building Football Culture in Rural Areas

President Raji emphasized that true football development must be inclusive and national in scope. “We must move beyond Monrovia,” he declared. “Every child, in every county, must have access to the game.”

Women’s Football Sees Strategic Boost

From 1 County to 7: A Rapid Expansion

Women’s football, once on the periphery of the LFA’s plans, is now at the center of its strategy. The number of female players has skyrocketed to over 2,000 across seven counties, up from just eight teams in one county a few years ago.

Women in Coaching and Administration

In addition to on-pitch talent, the LFA has pledged to support:

• Female coaching certification

• Leadership roles for women in clubs

• Specialized competitions for girls’ teams

• Partnerships with schools and NGOs

Full Membership Granted to Seven New Organizations

The New Voting Members

In a bid to decentralize power and increase inclusivity, the LFA 2025 Ordinary Congress granted full membership to:

• Bushrod Queens

• Gompa FC

• Kneeling Warriors

• Downtown FC

• World Girls FC

• District 17 Academy

• Liberia Sports Medics Association (LISMAC)

LISMAC’s Symbolic Inclusion

The admission of LISMAC reflects a holistic approach to football, recognizing the importance of sports medicine and player welfare as key components of modern footballing success.

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

Recognizing Football Heroes

The congress paid tribute to:

• Former LFA President Cllr. Izetta Wesley

• Longtime corporate sponsors and football partners

• Government officials who supported the LFA’s development roadmap

These acknowledgments weren’t mere protocol—they were strategic reminders of the continuity and collaboration needed for future success.

A Call for Unity Amid Transformation

President Raji’s closing remarks emphasized the need for collaboration:

“Yes, there may be missteps, but we welcome collaboration and constructive feedback… What we need now is unity and support, not silence or criticism from the sidelines.”

What This Means for Liberia’s Football Future

Institutional Reforms

The congress’s decisions reinforce:

• Transparent financial governance

• Structural improvements

• Local talent investment

• Youth and women’s empowerment

Liberia on the African Football Map

With these developments, Liberia strengthens its bid to:

• Qualify consistently for continental tournaments

• Attract international scouts and partners

• Increase national morale through sport

Final Thoughts: The Stakes Are High, but the Foundation Is Strong

Football is more than a game in Liberia. It’s a language, a dream, and a lifeline. The LFA 2025 Ordinary Congress may not make global headlines, but its long-term impact could be transformative.

Whether this revolution remains “quiet” or roars into the spotlight depends on the implementation, accountability, and unity shown in the months to come.

For now, however, the message is clear: Liberia is building its football future, brick by brick, boot by boot, and dream by dream.