Nigeria Facilitates Koroma’s Return to Sierra Leone

Nigeria has facilitated the return of former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown after more than two years in the country, following diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and political reconciliation in Sierra Leone.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, accompanied Koroma to Sierra Leone on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The minister described Koroma’s return as an important development in ongoing efforts to strengthen dialogue, political confidence and national reconciliation in the West African country.

Koroma relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 following engagements by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to ease political tensions and promote stability in Sierra Leone.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the diplomatic initiative provided an avenue for improved understanding between Koroma and Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, allowing the former leader to remain temporarily in Nigeria.

She commended Koroma for what she described as his restraint and statesmanship throughout the period, saying his conduct demonstrated a commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution.

The minister also acknowledged the roles played by ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government and other stakeholders in sustaining dialogue and addressing the circumstances that led to Koroma’s temporary relocation.

She expressed appreciation to President Bio, Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation and commitment to peace and reconciliation.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to support democratic stability, constitutional order and peaceful resolution of political differences across West Africa.

She expressed optimism that Koroma’s return would further advance national reconciliation and consolidate peace and stability in Sierra Leone.

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo also accompanied the former Sierra Leonean leader and the foreign affairs minister to Freetown.

The development further highlights Nigeria’s diplomatic role in supporting peacebuilding, dialogue and stability within the West African region.

By Sophina Ovuike, Abuja 

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