Nigeria Facilitates Ernest Bai Koroma's Return to Sierra Leone

Nigeria has facilitated the return of former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown after more than two years of temporary relocation in Nigeria. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced this on Sunday, stating she accompanied Koroma back to Sierra Leone on the instruction of President Bola Tinubu.

Koroma had relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 following engagements by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed at fostering peace and political understanding in Sierra Leone. Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that Koroma's conduct during his stay reflected statesmanship and commitment to a peaceful outcome.

The minister expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation. Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan also participated in Koroma's return, with Jonathan highlighting Nigeria's role as a supportive environment for Koroma during his stay.

Both leaders expressed hope that Koroma's return would enhance reconciliation in Sierra Leone.