Posted by Amarachi on Mon 03rd Mar, 2025 - tori.ng
Upon his arrival, he was accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Presidential Guards Brigade, accompanied by traditional bagpipe music.
President Bola Tinubu played host to his Sierra Leonean counterpart, Julius Maada Bio, at the State House in Abuja on Monday, March 3.
President Bio arrived at the Presidential Villa at 12:22 p.m., where he was received by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Upon his arrival, he was accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Presidential Guards Brigade, accompanied by traditional bagpipe music.
Nigeria and Sierra Leone share a long history of strong diplomatic relations, dating back to their respective independences in October 1960 and April 1961.
Both countries are active participants in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, working together on initiatives to foster peace, security, and development across the region.
Nigeria played a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s civil war from 1991 to 2002, leading ECOWAS peacekeeping operations to restore stability.
The partnership between both nations has extended into economic cooperation, with trade volumes fluctuating over the years.
As of 2023, Nigeria’s exports to Sierra Leone were valued at approximately $5.55 million, comprising fertilizers, electrical equipment, glassware, spices, and food preparations.
In return, Sierra Leone’s exports to Nigeria included animal and vegetable oils, machinery, rubber products, and seafood.
While details of the discussions between both leaders have yet to be disclosed, the visit reaffirms the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Sierra Leone.
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