By Gloria Ikibah
The Federal Government has facilitated the safe return of former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown, bringing to a close more than two years of his temporary stay in the country under a regional peace arrangement.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who accompanied Koroma back to Sierra Leone on the directive of President Bola Tinubu, said the move marked the successful conclusion of a diplomatic process aimed at fostering peace, stability and political understanding in the West African nation. 
Koroma relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 following engagements led by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to ease political tensions and promote national reconciliation in Sierra Leone.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the sustained efforts of regional leaders helped create an atmosphere of trust and understanding between President Julius Maada Bio and the former president, paving the way for Koroma’s stay in Nigeria and his eventual return home.
“His conduct throughout this period reflected restraint, statesmanship, and commitment to a peaceful outcome,” the minister said.
She noted that continuous consultations involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government and other stakeholders played a crucial role in addressing issues that had necessitated Koroma’s relocation.
The minister commended President Bio, former President Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for embracing dialogue and demonstrating commitment to peace and national unity.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to regional harmony, constitutional governance and democratic stability, expressing confidence that Koroma’s return would further strengthen reconciliation efforts in Sierra Leone.
She said Nigeria would continue to support initiatives that promote peace and stability across the West African sub-region.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo also joined Odumegwu-Ojukwu in escorting Koroma back to Freetown, underscoring Nigeria’s enduring role in regional diplomacy and conflict resolution.
