By Gloria Ikibah
Nigeria and Sierra Leone have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing regional integration following the formal presentation of Letters of Credence by Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Ayo Luther Ogbomode, to President Julius Maada Bio in Freetown.
The presentation took place at the State House, where the Nigerian envoy conveyed the goodwill message of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reiterated Nigeria’s resolve to deepen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between both countries. 
During the audience with President Bio, Ambassador Ogbomode extended President Tinubu’s warm greetings and best wishes to the Sierra Leonean leader.
She said, “Nigeria remains unwavering in its commitment to further strengthening the longstanding bonds of friendship, cooperation and brotherhood that have historically united our two countries.”
The High Commissioner also congratulated President Bio on assuming the Chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, expressing confidence in his ability to steer the regional bloc towards greater unity and progress.
“Nigeria has every confidence in your leadership and believes that under your stewardship, ECOWAS will continue to advance regional integration, democratic governance, economic prosperity, peace and collective security across West Africa”, she stated.
Responding, President Bio thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian government for their goodwill and continued support, while reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria.
“Sierra Leone remains strongly committed to deepening bilateral relations with Nigeria, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, education, security cooperation, capacity building and regional integration”, he said.
President Bio described the relationship between the two countries as one built on a rich shared history, common values and mutual respect.
“Nigeria and Sierra Leone enjoy an excellent and enduring relationship founded on a shared history, common values and mutual respect”, he added.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Bio pledged to work closely with Nigeria in promoting regional peace, economic development and integration.
According to him, “As Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, I remain committed to working closely with Nigeria in advancing regional stability, economic development and the collective aspirations of the peoples of West Africa.”
The Sierra Leonean leader also paid tribute to Nigeria for its role during his country’s civil war, acknowledging the sacrifices made in restoring peace and stability.
“The people and Government of Sierra Leone continue to hold Nigeria in the highest regard and remain deeply appreciative of the solidarity, leadership and assistance rendered during a critical period in our national history”, he said.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of both countries to expanding cooperation, promoting regional peace and reinforcing the longstanding partnership that has defined relations between Nigeria and Sierra Leone over the years.
