Nigeria’s Sacrifice for Sierra Leone’s Peace Will Never Be Forgotten – Sam-Sumana

Former Sierra Leonean Vice-President, Samuel Sam-Sumana, has expressed gratitude to Nigeria for its role in restoring peace to his country during the civil war.

Sam-Sumana spoke on Tuesday in Abuja when the leadership of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) paid him a courtesy visit.

He said Nigeria’s military and civilian sacrifices would remain indelible in Sierra Leone’s history, describing Nigeria as a big brother whose stability is vital to West Africa.

The former vice-president urged journalists to hold political leaders accountable through fair and constructive reporting, stressing that criticism was essential for good governance.

He also called on African countries to reduce dependence on foreign aid by investing in industrialisation, adding value to raw materials and strengthening economic self-reliance.

Sam-Sumana further advocated stronger African representation in global decision-making institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council.

DECAN President, Odita Sunday, said the visit was to appreciate Sam-Sumana for participating in the association’s 2026 Conference and Awards and to strengthen cooperation between defence journalists, security institutions and international stakeholders.