President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has awarded Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel in recognition of his contributions to peace and stability in the country.
The award was presented during a colourful parade to commemorate the 17th Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces in Freetown.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, the honour acknowledges Oluyede’s service under the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) and the sacrifices made by Nigerian troops during Sierra Leone’s civil war.
In his remarks, President Bio said the decoration recognised Oluyede’s dedication and the broader role played by Nigerian military personnel in restoring peace during one of Sierra Leone’s most turbulent periods.
The citation noted that Oluyede served as a Platoon Commander at the residence of the then Head of State between 1992 and 1994, where he demonstrated exemplary leadership, professionalism and commitment in protecting key government institutions.
The ceremony also honoured other distinguished military figures, including former Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, retired Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, as well as senior officers from Kenya, Guinea, the United States and the United Kingdom.
During the event, special tribute was paid to the Nigerian Armed Forces for their role under ECOMOG, with Sierra Leone commending Nigeria’s decisive intervention in restoring order and safeguarding civilians during the conflict.
The award underscores the longstanding military and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, highlighting Nigeria’s continued leadership in regional peacekeeping and security operations.
