Pula and Pulu take office today

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The inauguration ceremony to officially swear in Pula T. I. Nikolao Pula as the Governor of American Samoa, and Pulu Ae Ae Jr., as Lieutenant Governor will take place today, January 3, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Malaeoletalu, Fagatogo. The event marks the beginning of their leadership as they prepare to guide the territory toward the future.

The ceremony will include speeches, cultural performances, and a celebration of the new administration’s vision for the people of American Samoa.

The leaders of 12 different religious denominations will confer inaugural blessings on the Governor and Lt Governor.

Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula will then give his inaugural address as Governor of American Samoa.

Rev Elder Samuelu Faagogo, President of the First Samoan Gospel Church will give the final prayer and the program concludes with remarks by Lt Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr.

The Pago Pago Assembly of God Worship Team, CCCAS Fagatogo and Fagatogo Methodist choirs will provide the hymns.

Miss Simenesa Ofeira Loia will sing the United States anthem while Mis Naomi Matagi will sing the anthem of American Samoa.

A release from the incoming administration extended its gratitude to Gov. Lemanu P.S. Mauga and his department directors for the meeting in late December where transition binders were provided and marked a positive step to ensuring a seamless transfer of responsibilities. 

According to the press release both the Head of State of Samoa and Prime Minister were invited to attend, however   the Head of state Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II is unable to attend but Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa is confirmed to witness the inauguration ceremony.

The public is cordially invited to attend the inauguration ceremony.

• Inauguration Ceremony: January 3rd at 11:00 AM, Malaeoletalu, Fagatogo;

• Governor’s State Dinner & Ball: January 4th at 5:30 PM, Gov. H. Lee Auditorium;

• Sunday Church Service: January 5th at 12:00 PM, EFKAS, Fagatogo