Abuja:Former Vice-President of Sierra Leone, Mr. Samuel Sam-Sumana, has expressed deep appreciation for Nigeria’s significant contributions to restoring peace in Sierra Leone. This acknowledgment highlights Nigeria’s pivotal role during Sierra Leone’s civil war.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sam-Sumana made these remarks during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN). He emphasized that the sacrifices of Nigerian troops and civilians are unforgettable and vital to Sierra Leone’s history.
Sam-Sumana also urged journalists to hold political leaders accountable through constructive criticism, which he deemed essential for strengthening governance and public institutions. He cautioned against interpreting critical reporting as hostility, advocating for fair and accurate journalism to promote public interest.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s civil war, he noted the influence of the conflict in Liberia and the competition over diamond resources. He called for West African countries to learn from these experiences to prevent future conflicts, stressing the importance of peaceful political competition and national stability.
On Africa’s development, Sam-Sumana advocated for economic independence through industrialization and international partnerships. He called for investment in local industries to create employment and reduce economic hardships that lead to forced migration.
He also emphasized the need for stronger African representation in international decision-making bodies like the United Nations Security Council, stating that Africa must have a voice in decisions about its future.
The visit also served as an opportunity for veteran defence correspondents to share their experiences covering the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone, highlighting the human cost of conflict and the need for responsible reporting to promote peace. The engagement concluded with a commitment to professional cooperation and peacebuilding across Africa.