Odita Sunday 
President Julius Maada Bio has decorated Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel during the 17th Armed Forces Day celebration of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.
The colourful ceremony recognised the Nigerian military chief for his contributions to peace and security in Sierra Leone while serving under the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group peacekeeping mission.
Confirming the development in a statement on Thursday, Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, stated that the honour, Sierra Leone’s highest national award, was also presented as appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerian officers and soldiers who helped restore stability during the country’s civil war.
Reading the citation, Sierra Leonean authorities recalled that Oluyede served in the ECOMOG operation and was deployed as a platoon commander at the residence of the then Head of State between 1992 and 1994.
According to the citation, his “exemplary service, leadership and unwavering commitment to peace and stability” helped strengthen government authority during the conflict period.
Other distinguished personalities from Nigeria and the international community were also honoured at the ceremony.
They included former Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff Martin Luther Agwai, Kenya’s Daniel Opande, Guinea’s Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, United States Major General Paul Rogers and United Kingdom Brigadier General Edward Butler.
At the event, tributes were paid to the courage and sacrifice of the Nigerian Armed Forces whose operations under ECOMOG were described as pivotal to regional peace enforcement.
Speakers commended the Nigerian contingent for bravery, resilience and protection of civilians during Sierra Leone’s civil war.
Uba noted that the honour further strengthens military cooperation and enduring ties between both countries.
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