Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio shared an inspiring story about his relationship with Liberia during the 178th Independence Day celebration on July 26, 2025. He expressed immense gratitude for the diplomatic courtesy extended to him by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and pledged Sierra Leone’s support as Liberia enters a new era of peace and stability.
President Bio emphasized that his recognition by the government and people of Liberia was not a mere formality but a testament to Sierra Leone’s contributions that have brought liberty and peace to the republic. “I view this ceremony not just as a diplomatic courtesy, but as a tribute to all meaningful Sierra Leonean men and women, both in and out of uniform, who answered the call of national and international duty in the name of peace and democratic stability. We accept this honor with great humility, pride, and a renewed commitment to the ideals of regional unity, democratic stability, and a shared peace that binds us,” President Bio stated.
He clarified that his presence at Liberia’s 178th Independence Day celebration was not solely as the head of state but as a friend and brother. “This is more than a historical occasion; it is a milestone. This moment stands as a testament to the resilience of a people who have endured great hardships yet have never lost hope in their ability to rise again. Standing before you today, I don’t see this as a mere diplomatic courtesy but as a personal homecoming.”
Bio reminisced about standing on Liberian soil in uniform, not in ceremony but in service as a peacemaker. He noted, however, that there was no peace to keep at that time, preferring to be known as a peace enforcer instead. “I once walked the streets of Monrovia, Freeport, Gardnersville, and many other places, which gave me profound insight into Liberia’s troubled past. It was a challenging period in Liberia’s history. Looking into the eyes of Liberians, worn by war yet still searching for hope, I recall those days vividly. The air was heavy, and the nights were unsettling. I could sense the endurance of a nation, even amidst fear. Liberia carried with it a quiet dignity and a deep desire to rebuild,” he reflected.
Throughout his visits to Liberia, he observed a resilient spirit among its people and a nation that transformed the sky into symbols of strength. Reflecting on the services he provided during the civil war, Bio said he felt a deep emotional connection to his earlier experiences as a much younger officer in his late twenties.
“When I was made an officer of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Sierra Leone, I could only enter by sea, not by land,” underscoring the need for continued efforts in all sectors of Liberia. “At that time, our presence faced immediate action. We were met and welcomed by gunfire, yet I did not waver, as I had a solemn duty to uphold peace in this country. While our roles may have differed, our mission to help restore hope and dignity was one I embraced with confidence. This is how far we have come as individuals,” President Bio told the gathering.
