Freetown, 14th September, 2026 – Sierra Leone witnessed a moment of national and regional significance last week as former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma returned home after more than two years of residence in Nigeria. His arrival on Sunday, September 6, 2026, closed a chapter of separation and opened a new space for reconciliation, dialogue, and unity.
“I am back home. And home will always be home. There will never be any substitute for home,” Koroma declared upon arrival, underscoring both the personal and national meaning of his return.
Koroma’s return was not only a personal milestone but also the outcome of sustained diplomatic engagement across West Africa. Nigeria played a central role, offering hospitality during his stay in Abuja and supporting the process that ensured his safe and dignified return. Former Nigerian Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo provided counsel and accompaniment, while Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in welcoming Koroma back.
Ghana’s involvement spanned two administrations, from Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo‑Addo to John Dramani Mahama, reflecting continuity beyond political transitions. Senegal’s President Macky Sall and Côte d’Ivoire’s President Alassane Ouattara also contributed to the regional effort, alongside the institutional role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
On Monday, September 7, Koroma visited State House, where he was received by President Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh. President Bio welcomed his predecessor on behalf of the government and people, acknowledging the significance of his return and stressing that Sierra Leone’s progress requires contributions from all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Koroma, in turn, expressed gratitude to President Bio for enabling his return and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, cohesion, and national development. He pledged to offer counsel wherever his experience may serve the country, emphasizing that his dedication to Sierra Leone transcends political differences.
The meeting between the serving President and his predecessor gave national expression to the spirit of reconciliation. It demonstrated that dialogue and shared responsibility among leaders remain vital to Sierra Leone’s stability and progress.
Koroma extended thanks to Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, ECOWAS, and all those whose discretion and goodwill sustained the process. He also gave profound gratitude to Almighty God and the people of Sierra Leone for their prayers and patience.
At a time when West Africa faces challenges to peace and democratic governance, Koroma’s homecoming stands as a powerful example of African diplomacy. It highlights how serving and former leaders, together with regional institutions, can work across borders and political divides to preserve peace and foster national healing.
As Koroma noted, reconciliation is not achieved in a single journey or meeting. It requires continuing care, courage, and mutual respect. His return, however, marks a new chapter for Sierra Leone, one rooted in unity, dialogue, and shared responsibility for the nation’s future.
