In a stirring display of gratitude and regional solidarity, President Julius Maada Bio has conferred one of Sierra Leone’s highest national honours on Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, during celebrations marking the 17th Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.
Gen. Oluyede was decorated with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel at a colourful parade ceremony, in recognition of his contributions to securing peace and stability in Sierra Leone during his service under the Economic Community of West Africa Monitoring Group (ECOMOG).
The award also symbolised Sierra Leone’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerian officers and soldiers who played a pivotal role in ending the country’s brutal civil war and restoring democratic governance.
Reading the citation, officials highlighted Gen. Oluyede’s deployment to Sierra Leone between 1992 and 1994, when he served as a Platoon Commander at the residence of the then Head of State. His tenure was described as marked by exemplary leadership, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the government and protecting civilians during one of the nation’s most turbulent periods.
The ceremony paid solemn tribute to the courage and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces, whose leadership under ECOMOG placed them at the forefront of regional peace enforcement during Sierra Leone’s civil conflict. The Nigerian contingent was widely commended for bravery, discipline and its steadfast protection of civilians.
Other distinguished military figures from Nigeria, Guinea, Kenya, the United States and the United Kingdom were also honoured at the event. Among them were former Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Kenya’s Daniel Opande (rtd), Guinea’s Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, the United States’ Paul Rogers, and the United Kingdom’s Edward Butler (rtd).
In his remarks, President Bio praised the enduring bonds between Sierra Leone and its international partners, singling out Nigeria’s historic role in defending democracy and preserving peace in the West African nation.
The 17th Armed Forces Day ceremony served not only as a celebration of Sierra Leone’s military service members but also as a reminder of the power of regional cooperation in overcoming conflict and building lasting stability.
