First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima MaadacBio has presided over the coronation of Madam Fiona Ngima as the first female President of the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS).

The ceremony, held on February 28, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward inclusivity and progressive leadership.

In a statement following the event, First Lady Fatima Bio expressed her pride in witnessing the historic occasion, which she described as a testament to the impact of President Julius Maada Bio’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment laws.

“Madam Fiona Ngima’s coronation represents hope for many young girls who aspire to break barriers and achieve their dreams,” she wrote. “It serves as a reminder that with support, determination, and the right policies in place, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential.”

Fiona Ngima, who was elected to lead NUSS in December 2024, made history as the first woman to hold the union’s highest office since its establishment. Her election is widely seen as a transformative step forward for gender inclusivity in student leadership and a reflection of Sierra Leone’s commitment to empowering women and girls.

During her inaugural speech, Ngima expressed gratitude to the student body for their trust and support, describing her election as a victory for equality and inclusive leadership. She outlined an ambitious agenda for her administration, focusing on key areas such as advancing student welfare, enhancing access to technology, improving learning environments, and fostering partnerships to create greater educational opportunities.

Ngima also called on students across Sierra Leone to embrace unity and work collaboratively. “Collective action and solidarity are vital to strengthening NUSS and achieving our goals,” she emphasized. Her vision for the union reflects a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by students while promoting a culture of inclusivity and progress.

The coronation ceremony was attended by students, educators, and government officials, all of whom celebrated the historic moment as a symbol of hope and progress.

First Lady Fatima Bio used the occasion to reaffirm her commitment to advocating for policies that protect and empower women and girls across Sierra Leone and Africa. “Together, we can build a more equitable society that values the contributions of everyone,” she stated.