President Julius Maada Bio has appointed former Brigadier General Amara Idara Bangura as the new Chief of Defense Staff of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces. Bangura officially took the oath of office today, assuming leadership of the nation’s military.

Bangura, a seasoned military officer with decades of experience, steps into the role with a robust track record. He previously served as the Assistant Chief of Defense Staff for Operations and Plans, Chief of Staff at Headquarters Joint Force Command, and Director of Military Operations at the Peace Mission Training Centre. His extensive service history underscores his deep understanding of military strategy and operational planning.

Academically, Bangura is highly qualified, holding two Master of Arts degrees from King’s College London and a Bachelor of Science from the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM). His expertise spans both military operations and academic achievements, equipping him to address the complex challenges facing the country’s defense.

In his inaugural remarks, Bangura emphasized his commitment to fostering collaboration among stakeholders to bolster Sierra Leone’s security and maintain peace. “It is an honor to serve in this capacity, and I am dedicated to ensuring the safety and stability of our nation,” he stated.

President Bio commended Bangura’s leadership qualities and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the armed forces during a critical period for Sierra Leone’s security landscape.

Bangura’s appointment comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the nation’s defense capabilities and ensure readiness to address both internal and external challenges.