Nigeria has successfully facilitated the return of former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma to Freetown after more than two years of temporary residence in Nigeria.
Koroma returned to Sierra Leone on Sunday, accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who acted on the instruction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the former president's return as the successful outcome of sustained regional diplomatic engagements and confidence-building efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
The Minister, in a statement issued on Sunday by her Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Magnus Eze, recalled that Koroma relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 following interventions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
She said the engagements were designed to foster peace, political understanding and stability in Sierra Leone.
According to her, the diplomatic process helped to improve understanding between President Julius Maada Bio and his predecessor, creating the conditions that led to Koroma's temporary relocation to Nigeria.
"His conduct throughout this period reflected restraint, statesmanship, and commitment to a peaceful outcome," Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.
She added that continued consultations involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government and other relevant stakeholders during Koroma's stay in Nigeria helped address the issues surrounding his relocation.
The Minister commended President Bio, former President Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation and commitment to peace and national stability.
She reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to promoting regional peace, constitutional order and democratic governance, expressing optimism that Koroma's return would further advance reconciliation and strengthen peace in Sierra Leone.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also accompanied Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu in escorting Koroma back to Freetown.