The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully arranged the return of former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown, ending a period of over two years during which he lived temporarily in Nigeria.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, led the delegation that escorted Koroma home on the directive of President Bola Tinubu. Speaking on the mission, she described the development as the outcome of sustained regional diplomacy and trust-building efforts aimed at easing political tensions in Sierra Leone.
Koroma’s relocation to Abuja in January 2024 was brokered by ECOWAS as part of broader moves to promote stability and dialogue following unrest in Sierra Leone. According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the intervention created room for improved relations between Koroma and incumbent President Julius Maada Bio, which ultimately made his return possible.
The Minister commended Koroma for the decorum he maintained throughout his stay, noting that his conduct demonstrated maturity and a commitment to peace. She added that continuous engagements involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian government, and other partners were instrumental in addressing the concerns that led to his temporary move.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked President Bio, the former president, and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation in ensuring a peaceful resolution. She reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to upholding constitutional governance and regional unity, expressing optimism that Koroma’s homecoming would bolster reconciliation efforts in Sierra Leone. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was also part of the delegation that accompanied Koroma back to Freetown.
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Nigeria Facilitates Return of Ex-Sierra Leone President Koroma After 2-Year Stay
