By Samuel Ibukun
The High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Sierra Leone, Ambassador Ayo Luther Ogbomode has presented her Letters of Credence to President Julius Maada Bio at State House, Freetown.
The presentation ceremony was followed by an audience where Ambassador Ogbomode conveyed the warm greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to the Sierra Leonean leader.
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties of friendship, cooperation and brotherhood between both countries.
The High Commissioner also congratulated President Bio on his assumption of the Chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. She expressed Nigeria’s confidence in his leadership and said ECOWAS, under his stewardship, would continue to advance regional integration, democratic governance, economic prosperity, peace and collective security in West Africa.
In his response, President Bio appreciated President Tinubu and the Government of Nigeria for their goodwill and continued support.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Nigeria, particularly in trade, investment, education, security cooperation, capacity building and regional integration.
President Bio noted that Nigeria and Sierra Leone share “an excellent and enduring relationship founded on a shared history, common values, and mutual respect.”
As Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, he said he remains committed to working closely with Nigeria to advance regional stability, economic development, and the collective aspirations of West African peoples.
The Sierra Leonean President also paid tribute to Nigeria’s historic role during Sierra Leone’s civil conflict, acknowledging the country’s sacrifices, leadership and solidarity during that period.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the development in a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa in Abuja on Monday.
