Nigeria’s High Commissioner Presents Credentials to Sierra Leone’s President, Pledges Stronger Bilateral Ties

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Ayo Luther Ogbomode, has presented her Letters of Credence to Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations and regional cooperation between the two West African nations.

The presentation took place at the State House in Freetown during an official ceremony, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During an audience with President Bio, Ambassador Ogbomode conveyed the goodwill and best wishes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to deepening the longstanding ties of friendship, cooperation and brotherhood shared by both countries.

The envoy also congratulated President Bio on his recent assumption of office as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, expressing Nigeria’s confidence in his leadership to advance regional integration, democratic governance, economic prosperity, peace and collective security across West Africa.

In his response, President Bio thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian government for their continued support and goodwill, pledging Sierra Leone’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation with Nigeria in trade, investment, education, security, capacity building and regional integration.

The Sierra Leonean leader described relations between both countries as enduring and founded on a shared history, common values and mutual respect. He also pledged to work closely with Nigeria in his capacity as ECOWAS Chairman to promote regional stability, economic development and the collective aspirations of West African citizens.

President Bio further paid tribute to Nigeria’s significant role during Sierra Leone’s civil war, acknowledging the country’s sacrifices and support, which he said remain deeply appreciated by the government and people of Sierra Leone.