The people of Jendema, travellers, cross-border traders and other stakeholders at the Sierra Leone–Liberia border have praised the leadership of Ibrahim Kofi Conteh, Senior Immigration Officer and Head of Station of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department at the Mano River Bridge, Jendema, for what they describe as significant improvements in immigration services since his posting to the border in December 2025.

According to community members and frequent travellers, Conteh’s leadership has brought renewed professionalism, discipline and efficiency to the immigration post, with officers maintaining a consistent presence at the crossing point and carrying out their duties with greater focus and professionalism.

Travellers using the Mano River Bridge say they have experienced respectful and dignified treatment from immigration personnel under Conteh’s leadership. They also commended immigration officers for assisting travellers with their travel documentation and providing guidance to ensure that border-crossing procedures are properly followed.

Cross-border traders, particularly women engaged in regular trade between Sierra Leone and Liberia, have also expressed appreciation for the leadership style of the Senior Immigration Officer. They said that when their travel documents are in order, they are able to conduct their businesses across the border without fear of harassment or improper demands from immigration personnel.

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The traders described Conteh as a proactive leader who has created an environment in which both travellers and traders feel more comfortable and confident when accessing immigration services.

Beyond the immediate immigration operations, Conteh has reportedly developed strong working relationships with community stakeholders in Jendema and Bo Waterside, immigration and other border personnel, travellers, cross-border traders and his own staff.

His relationship with counterparts in Liberia has also been highlighted as an important aspect of his leadership. Stakeholders say the cooperation between the Sierra Leone Immigration Department and the Liberian Immigration authorities at the border continues to contribute to stronger bilateral relations and effective cross-border coordination between the two neighbouring countries.

Staff members at the Jendema Immigration Station have also spoken positively about Conteh’s leadership. They describe him as a leader who understands the needs of his personnel, cares about their welfare and encourages them to improve their professional capacity.

According to his staff, Conteh motivates and inspires officers to perform their responsibilities effectively while maintaining respect for the people they serve.

The positive assessments from travellers, traders, community stakeholders and immigration personnel have contributed to a growing perception that immigration operations at the Jendema border crossing are becoming more organised, professional and people-centred.

For many who regularly use the Sierra Leone–Liberia border, the changes under Conteh’s leadership represent more than improved immigration procedures. They say they reflect the importance of respect, dignity, professionalism, accountability and cooperation in managing one of Sierra Leone’s key international border crossings.

As cross-border movement and trade continue between the two sister countries, stakeholders say effective leadership and strong cooperation among border authorities will remain essential to maintaining peace, facilitating legitimate travel and trade, and strengthening the long-standing relationship between the peoples of Sierra Leone and Liberia.

For the people of Jendema and many who pass through the Mano River Bridge, Ibrahim Kofi Conteh’s tenure has become associated with a renewed commitment to professional and respectful immigration service.