Nigeria has supported the safe and dignified return of former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma to his home country after spending more than two years temporarily relocated in Nigeria.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced the development in a statement issued through her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze.
The minister accompanied President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
She described the former president’s return as the conclusion of a regional diplomatic effort focused on promoting peace, dialogue and political stability in Sierra Leone.
ECOWAS Peace Effort Led to Temporary Relocation
According to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Koroma’s relocation to Nigeria in January 2024 followed engagements facilitated by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The initiative was aimed at reducing political tensions and encouraging dialogue among key stakeholders in Sierra Leone.
The ministry said the arrangement created an opportunity for improved understanding between Sierra Leone’s current President, Julius Maada Bio, and Koroma.
The former president’s stay in Nigeria was described as temporary and part of efforts to support regional peace and political confidence-building.
Nigeria Praises Koroma’s Conduct
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Koroma demonstrated maturity and commitment to peaceful resolution throughout the period.
“His conduct throughout this period reflected restraint, statesmanship, and commitment to a peaceful outcome,” she said.
She noted that continued engagement involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian government and other stakeholders helped address issues surrounding Koroma’s relocation.
Obasanjo Joins Return Mission
The foreign affairs minister expressed appreciation to President Ernest Bai Koroma former President Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation during the process.
She also acknowledged the role of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who joined the delegation that accompanied Koroma back to Freetown.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Stability
The Nigerian government said Koroma’s return represents another step towards strengthening reconciliation, democratic stability and constitutional order in Sierra Leone.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed confidence that the development would contribute positively to national healing and peaceful political relations in the West African country.
Nigeria reiterated its commitment to supporting regional harmony and diplomatic solutions to political challenges within West Africa.
