28th November, 2023
By Abubakar Hashim, Sierra Leone
Due to the fluid ongoing security situation, a combined ECOWAS and Nigerian delegation is in Sierra Leone on a solidarity and fact-finding mission.
The team, comprised the President of ECOWAS, Dr Imar Alieu Toure, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Gen Emmanuel Udiandeye.
The delegation met with President Bio at the State House to convey a goodwill message from the Chairman of ECOWAS, Bola Tinubu and other member Heads of State to the government and people of Sierra Leone.
ECOWAS is deeply concerned about recent events in the region, with three of its member states, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso under military rule.
These countries are currently on a transition timetable for an eventual return to democratic rule.
In his response, President Bio expressed deep appreciation to the delegation for their visit and reiterated his unwavering resolve to sustain democracy in the country that had emerged from a brutal war 21 years ago.