Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma
Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday bade farewell to former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma as he departed Nigeria to return to his home country after spending more than two years in the country.
Jonathan disclosed the development in a post shared on his official X account, where he described Koroma as a “dear friend and brother” and expressed joy over his safe return to Freetown.
According to the former Nigerian leader, Nigeria served as Koroma’s “home away from home” during the period, adding that efforts were made behind the scenes to facilitate a peaceful and dignified return.
Reflecting on the development, Jonathan wrote: “This morning, I had the pleasure of seeing off my dear friend and brother, His Excellency President Ernest Bai Koroma, as he begins his journey home to Sierra Leone.”
He added: “Nigeria was his home away from home for over two years, and I am grateful that we were able to offer friendship, support and solidarity during that period. Working quietly with others, we encouraged dialogue and engagement with the Sierra Leonean authorities to help create the conditions for his safe and dignified return.”
Jonathan expressed delight that the former Sierra Leonean leader was finally heading back to his country.
“As we say farewell today, I am particularly happy that he is returning home to Freetown,” he said.
The former President also offered prayers and goodwill to Koroma as he begins a new phase of his life.
“President Koroma, I wish you a safe journey, peace of mind and every success in this new chapter. May your return be a moment of renewed hope and reconciliation for you, your family and the people of Sierra Leone.”
He concluded his message with the words: “Safe travels, my brother. Sierra Leone welcomes you home.”
Koroma’s return marks the end of a prolonged stay in Nigeria, where he had lived for more than two years while diplomatic engagements continued over his situation. Jonathan’s remarks underscore Nigeria’s role in supporting regional dialogue and peaceful engagement within the West African sub-region.
