By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Nigeria has facilitated the safe and dignified return of former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown, following more than two years of temporary relocation to Nigeria.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who accompanied Koroma to Sierra Leone on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said his return marked the successful conclusion of a regional diplomatic and confidence-building process.
Koroma relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 following engagements by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed at promoting peace, stability and political understanding in Sierra Leone.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the process helped create conditions for greater understanding between Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio and Koroma, paving the way for the former president’s temporary stay in Nigeria.
She described Koroma’s conduct throughout the period as a reflection of “restraint, statesmanship, and commitment to a peaceful outcome.”
According to the minister, sustained engagements involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government and other stakeholders during Koroma’s stay contributed to resolving the issues that had necessitated his relocation.
She expressed appreciation to President Bio, Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation and commitment to peace.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional harmony, constitutional order and democratic stability, expressing confidence that Koroma’s return would further strengthen national reconciliation and peace in Sierra Leone.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also joined the minister in escorting Koroma back to Freetown.
