Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, led members of Cabinet in honouring President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for his successful tenure as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, describing his leadership as instrumental in raising Sierra Leone’s regional and international profile.
The surprise recognition took place during a Cabinet meeting at State House, Freetown, where what had been scheduled as a routine session turned into a celebration of President Bio’s achievements during his one-year stewardship of the regional bloc from June 2025 to July 2026.
On behalf of Cabinet, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Cabinet Ministers presented President Bio with a signed appreciation citation, a commemorative plaque and a ceremonial cake in recognition of his leadership and the successful hosting of the 2026 ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit in Lungi.
The commemorative plaque reflected those earlier presented by President Bio to fellow West African Heads of State following the conclusion of the summit, symbolizing Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a trusted destination for regional diplomacy, cooperation and international engagement.
Speaking during the presentation, the Chief Minister described President Bio’s ECOWAS Chairmanship as a defining chapter in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic history, commending his visionary leadership, commitment to regional peace and security, and dedication to advancing the ECOWAS integration agenda.
He noted that under President Bio’s leadership, Sierra Leone successfully hosted one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in the country’s history, welcoming 11 Heads of State, distinguished guests, more than 2,000 visitors and over 500 delegates. He described the summit as peaceful, professionally coordinated and widely recognized as one of the most successful regional meetings hosted by the country.
The Chief Minister further praised the President for strengthening Sierra Leone’s reputation as a capable and reliable host for major international events, expressing confidence that his legacy of service, collaboration and visionary leadership would continue to inspire future generations.
Responding to the tribute, President Bio admitted that the recognition had taken him completely by surprise.
Drawing humour from his military background, he remarked that surprises were usually tactics employed against an adversary rather than something a soldier expected to experience personally.
The President expressed sincere appreciation to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the Chief Minister, Cabinet Ministers, his front office staff and the people of Sierra Leone for the honour bestowed upon him.
