President Julius Bio of Sierra Leone has conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel on Nigeria’s chief of defence staff, Olufemi Oluyede.

The award is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to peace and stability in Sierra Leone.

The decoration was carried out during a colourful parade marking the 17th Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces in Freetown, according to a statement issued on Thursday.

Mr Bio said it was in recognition of Mr Oluyede’s service under the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group, as well as the sacrifices of Nigerian officers and soldiers who played critical roles in ending Sierra Leone’s civil war.

In his citation, the Sierra Leonean authorities noted that Mr Oluyede served as a platoon commander at the residence of the then head of state between 1992 and 1994, during which he demonstrated exemplary leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to the protection of government institutions.

The ceremony also honoured former defence chief Martin Luther Agwai, as well as senior officers from Kenya, Guinea, the U.S. and the UK.

“During the event, special tribute was paid to the Nigerian Armed Forces for their courage and solidarity under ECOMOG, with Sierra Leone commending Nigeria’s decisive role in restoring peace and safeguarding civilians during the conflict.

“The honour further underscores the enduring military and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, as well as Nigeria’s leadership in regional peace support operations,” the statement said.

(NAN)