By Alhaji Abubakarr Bah, Information Attache, Saudi Arabia.
October, 29th 2025- The newly appointed Head of Sierra Leone Delegation (HoD) to the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), Brigadier General Samuel Bob Farmar, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency the Sierra Leone Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed S. Barrie, at the Chancery in Riyadh on October 27, 2025.
During the meeting, Brigadier Farmar outlined his strategic vision for Sierra Leone’s engagement with the IMCTC, while Ambassador Barrie discussed plans for a forthcoming working visit to the IMCTC headquarters to discuss issues related to capacity-building and Counterterrorism training for security personnel, support for establishing a National Counterterrorism coordination centre in Freetown, research information sharing and public diplomacy initiatives to counter extremist narratives among others.
The Ambassador noted that this visit would further support President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s vision to strengthen Sierra Leone’s role in regional and global security. Brigadier Farmar also reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Sierra Leone’s image and leadership within the IMCTC, expressing gratitude to the Government and the Ministry of Defence for entrusting him with this responsibility.
“This assignment is not just a personal milestone but a national responsibility,” he stated. I am committed to advancing President Bio’s vision for peace, security, and regional cooperation,” Brigadier Farmar stated.
Ambassador Barrie also congratulated Brigadier General Farmar on his appointment, assuring him of the Embassy’s support for the delegation’s vision.
Brigadier Farmar officially assumed office as HoD to the IMCTC on October 13, 2025, succeeding Colonel (retired) Simeon Nasiru Sheriff. With his wealth of experience and expertise, the new Military envoy is expected to make a significant impact in promoting Sierra Leone’s interests within the IMCTC. The HoD was accompanied by Captain (Navy) Hassan Jansson Conteh, delegate to the IMCTC.
Profile
Brigadier General Samuel Bob Farmar is a distinguished military officer with a remarkable career. Born in Bonthe District, he was educated at Christ the King College, Bo, and Njala University College. He holds a BSc in Agriculture from Njala University College (1998) and three Master’s degrees: Public Sector Management from GIMPA, Ghana; Military Studies from Bangladesh University of Professionals; and Defence Studies from King’s College London. He is also a graduate of the UK Defence Academy’s Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC). Before his appointment as HoD to the IMCTC, Brigadier Farmar served in various strategic roles, including Chief Instructor at Horton Academy, Commanding Officer of the Military Police, and Director of the Joint Presidential Guard Force.
The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) is a military alliance between 43 member states in the Muslim world, aimed at combating terrorism and extremism. Based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, its main objective is to protect Muslim countries from all terrorist groups and organizations, regardless of their sect or name, and to coordinate efforts to fight terrorism tactically, target terror financing, and counter radical ideology.
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