Korovy Val, Moscow, 5th August, 2026 – Diplomatic ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria were further strengthened this week as His Excellency Ambassador Iji Joseph Olusola, Nigerian Ambassador to the Russian Federation, paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation.
The meeting, held at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Moscow, unfolded in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual respect, underscoring the fraternal relations between the two West African nations.
Ambassador Olusola expressed deep appreciation for the reception, noting that the Sierra Leone Embassy felt “close to home.” He commended Ambassador Yongawo’s leadership and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing African unity, strengthening diplomatic cooperation, promoting trade and investment, and collaborating with Russian authorities on matters affecting citizens of both countries.
Ambassador Yongawo, in his remarks, reflected on the historic ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, recalling Fourah Bay College’s legacy as the “Athens of West Africa” and Nigeria’s pivotal role in regional peacekeeping during Sierra Leone’s civil war. He emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance as Africa’s most populous nation and a key driver of West African integration, likening its role to that of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom within Europe.
Yongawo also paid tribute to Nigeria’s sacrifices during Sierra Leone’s conflict, noting the enduring gratitude of Sierra Leoneans, symbolized by the naming of a Freetown street after former Nigerian Head of State, General Sani Abacha.
As Deputy Dean of the African Heads of Mission in Russia, Ambassador Yongawo offered guidance to his Nigerian counterpart as he begins his diplomatic assignment in Moscow. Ambassador Olusola welcomed the advice and pledged to work closely with fellow African envoys to advance shared interests.
The meeting concluded with both ambassadors exchanging views on the recent ECOWAS Summit hosted in Freetown under the chairmanship of President Julius Maada Bio. They commended Sierra Leone for successfully hosting the historic gathering and reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, security, and economic cooperation.
For inquiries: Festus J. Lahai Information Attaché Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Moscow Email: [email protected] Website: www.slembassyrussia.org
