Former president of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma has thanked the Nigerian military for their service in Sierra Leone during the ten-year civil war.

He expressed his gratitude during engagement with the Nigerian military on their role in the country’s general elections slated for 25 February 2023.

As the ECOWAS Head of Mission, Koroma and his delegation yesterday visited Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, CFR, along with the military chiefs at the Defence HQ in Abuja.

“Let me seize this moment to thank you and through you, the Nigerian Armed Forces who, with sweat and blood, fought hard to save the soul of our nation,” he said.

He then explored the role of the military in the election, giving reports of security challenges.

General Irabor disclosed that he has been taking note of President Koroma’s commitment and hard work in helping to promote and deepen democracy, good governance, peace, and security in the region and beyond.

Of particular note, the CDS spoke of President Koroma’s sterling post–war leadership of Sierra Leone, saying that it stands as a great legacy for others to emulate.

On the army’s role, and as the former Commander -In – Chief expected, the CDS informed that their role at the moment was principally to provide ‘residual’ support to the police. He however stated that should the need arises for them to be involved, they have developed a ‘Code of Conduct’ and “Rules of Engagement’ which shall guide their participation.

CDS Irabor profoundly thanked the ECOWAS HoM – Koroma, for his service to the continent and for standing by Nigeria