"We Have Not Forgotten You": Boakai Visits Ailing Lone Star Legend Josiah Johnson

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai traveled to the Barnesville residence of Josiah N. Johnson on September 5 to personally thank the 86-year-old former Lone Star captain and head coach for a lifetime of service to Liberian football. Johnson, born July 27, 1939, in Butaw, Sinoe County, played for the national team from 1958 to 1971 and later coached the Lone Star from 1971 to 1979, a period that included a celebrated 3-1 victory over Ghana and success at the Six-Nation Tournament.

"We have not forgotten you. The country has not forgotten," Boakai told Johnson, adding that he had given "invaluable contributions to this country that you gave without adequate compensation." An emotional Johnson responded: "Here, your flower is given to you. My entire family is appreciative of your visit and your leadership."

Beyond the symbolic gesture, the visit came with concrete commitments: immediate repairs to Johnson's deteriorating roof to be arranged through the President's Chief of Staff, road rehabilitation for his badly degraded street via the Ministry of Public Works, and a personal financial contribution from Boakai toward Johnson's welfare and healthcare needs. The President also announced plans for a national football academy aimed at developing the next generation of Liberian talent.

Former international James Debbah welcomed the visit as a historic and overdue recognition of a sporting icon. The gesture also drew attention to the Ministry of Youth and Sports' existing stipend program for retired national team players run through the Former Lone Star Players Association, with officials hoping the visit builds momentum for expanded budget support as aging former players face rising medical and cost-of-living expenses.