By Alimatu Jalloh
Monrovia, Saturday, July 26, 2025 — President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone was honoured with a commemorative plaque at Liberia’s 178th Independence celebrations, in recognition of Sierra Leone’s vital role in supporting peace during Liberia’s civil conflict.
The honour, presented by the Government of Liberia, acknowledged the contributions of Sierra Leonean troops and civilians—particularly their service through the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG)—who helped restore stability in the country’s most challenging times.
Speaking at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia, President Bio, also Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, delivered a keynote address themed “One People, One Destiny: Healing the Past, Building the Future.” He shared emotional reflections from his time as a young officer deployed in Liberia, recalling moments of hardship and resilience.
“I once stood on this sacred soil not as a visitor, but as a peacemaker,” he said. “Even then, I could sense the deep endurance of the Liberian people.”
Liberia’s Foreign Minister, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, expressed heartfelt appreciation for Sierra Leone’s sacrifices, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of regional solidarity. “The true legacy of ECOMOG is not only found on the battlefield or in treaties signed, but in the peace we enjoy today,” she noted.
The event drew Heads of State from across West Africa, including President Joseph Nyuma Boakai (Liberia), President John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), President Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal). Their presence underscored the significance of regional cooperation and mutual support.
President Bio’s address highlighted the intertwined histories of Liberia and Sierra Leone, calling the nations “twin souls” bound by culture, struggle, and kinship. He urged ECOWAS member states to enhance collaboration in trade, education, and border safety, and to provide young people with legal and dignified avenues for cross-border opportunity.
“Let the Mano River Union become a living promise of solidarity. Let our borders bind, not divide,” he declared.
President Bio concluded his speech with a moving tribute to Liberia’s resilience and called for continued partnership in shaping a peaceful, united West Africa. He returned to Sierra Leone later that day via road.